Sitka, Alaska – David Avraham Voluck, a distinguished member of the Chabad Lubavitch movement, serves as Chief Judge of the Sitka Tribal Court, where he facilitates dispute resolution among the Tlingit and Haida nations. His reputation for wisdom and fairness has led him to be invited as a judge for various other tribes, including the Unangan Aleuts of St. Paul Island and the Chickaloon Village Traditional Council.
Voluck’s commitment to the cultural integrity of Alaskan Natives is evident in his work. With a background in environmental law, he often finds himself in a unique position that intertwines legal advocacy and indigenous values. Recently, during a picturesque interview at the mouth of Starrigavan Creek, Voluck shared his deep connection to the land, assuring his guests of their safety while recounting a bear sighting just the day before.
Raised in Philadelphia and educated at the University of Pennsylvania, Voluck has embraced his role in Sitka over the past 30 years. His rapport with the Tlingit people has blossomed to the degree that they once wished to bestow a tribal name upon him. However, an elder asserted that honoring his Jewish heritage was paramount, leading to his receiving the name Aan S’aati, which translates to “Caretaker for the Land.”
Intrigued by the spiritual ethos of Alaskan Natives, Voluck opted for a two-year hiatus to delve into his Jewish studies, focusing on the Talmud and Halachah at the Rabbinical College of America in Morristown, New Jersey. He points to striking parallels between traditional Jewish beliefs and those of the indigenous Alaskans.
Voluck explains that the Tlingit perspective of the Creator encompasses a force that imbues life throughout creation, which similarly resonates within Judaism. This shared value emphasizes the duty to care for all elements of nature—trees, salmon, and the earth—reflecting a fundamental respect for life.
He sheds light on the often-misunderstood significance of totem poles, clarifying that they serve as narrative devices rather than objects of idol worship. These structures are crafted to tell the stories of land ownership and community grievances, acting as public reminders of one’s responsibilities and debts within the society.
Historically, Sitka has roots deep in Alaska’s past, once serving as the Russian capital before transitioning to American control in 1867 for $7.2 million. Voluck notes that many totem poles portray historical figures, including Russian traders, often memorializing unsavory actions to hold them accountable, rather than signifying veneration.
In the realm of legal matters, Voluck continues to advocate for the Sitka Indians in state and federal courts but finds fulfillment in his tribal judicial role. Unlike the adversarial nature of the American legal system, which he describes as producing persistent conflict, the indigenous approach prioritizes community healing and reconciliation. He emphasizes the need to restore relationships and balance, positioning disputes as communal issues rather than individual confrontations.
In tribal court, Voluck adopts an informal style, opting to sit among the disputants rather than elevated above them. Clad in a judicial robe adorned with tribal motifs, he aims to foster a collaborative environment. Drawing from diverse legal traditions, he seeks mutually beneficial outcomes, employing creative problem-solving techniques reminiscent of biblical wisdom. An illustrative incident involved two brothers arguing over an ATV, where Voluck cleverly invoked the legendary wisdom of King Solomon to guide them toward resolution.
While the Jewish presence in Sitka is modest, its members have created a supportive community. With no synagogue to anchor them, Jewish residents gather for holidays and celebrations, sharing the responsibilities of leadership among themselves. Despite the community’s size, they maintain a strong bond through mutual interests and shared heritage.
This description reflects the life and work of a man deeply committed to bridging cultures while preserving the rich traditions of both his Jewish background and the indigenous cultures he serves.
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