And boy, are my arms tired! But seriously, in addition to the usual learning and orienting that happens at the start of any job, I have already been asked to put my passions and skills to work. What a dream!
On my first day, I was asked to put together a crash course in activism for a group of students and staff from Camp Tavor who were visiting Detroit for the Climate Rally. For the first time in my career, I was explicitly asked to stack my love for social movements and activism on top of my love for facilitation and teaching. The results were really amazing. I got to engage in group learning and discussion about youth-led movements for social change, Judaism and its connection to activism, and a little bit about conduct and behavior in the setting of political actions. To say that the campers from Tavor were articulate and thoughtful would be a total understatement. What a cool group of kids.
In addition to the workshop, I’ve spent time getting comfortable with the systems of communication within the DJJ staff, preparing for our 8/13 #CloseTheCamps action, and strategizing on the best ways to support DJJ’s membership as I move forward in my new role.
I am filled with joy and gratitude as I look toward the horizon at all of the work yet to be done!
Allie
Photo Credit: Anthony Lanzilote