To those of you who I've had the pleasure of working alongside as a DJJ leader for the past several years:  Thank you for preparing me to deepen my connection to this work! I couldn't be happier to take this on. To those of you who I haven't had the chance to meet and work with: I am so excited to build build new relationships and struggle in beloved community with you!

As some of you may know, I am transitioning away from spending five years as an elementary and middle school music teacher into my first full time position as an organizer.  While I loved getting to spend my days surrounded by the energy and enthusiasm of my students, I have always felt an emptiness associated with my role as an educator.  While I worked tirelessly to fill in gaps in my student's education, deepen their cultural awareness, and create an environment of respect and consent, I accepted paychecks signed by the CEO of a for-profit company. While I spent my days exhausting myself to better serve my kids, I routinely saw systemic failures that made my progress feel negated. When I questioned administration about shortcomings in the offerings for students, I learned that cost saving measures were almost always at the root. There are ways that I want to pursue racial and economic justice that I was never able to access as an educator, and this new position with Detroit Jews for Justice will allow me to bring my whole self to this fight without feeling like I'm compromising my values. Leadership within DJJ has challenged me and fostered my growth as an activist and person. I am energized and humbled by the prospect of fostering that same growth in current and future DJJ leaders. Yay!

 

Couple things about me:

• I have a sweet fluffy dog named Aaron! You can find him on instagram @aaron_the_schnarf
• I used to play roller derby, but have taken a hiatus while I recover from a severely broken ankle. My derby name is Ruthless Bader Ginsburg
• My favorite food is potato chips
• When I have free time, I like to make art! I have a little zine called SIW Chronicles! Ask me about it and I might just give you a copy!
• I'm getting married in October!
• My favorite color is purple

Here's a picture of my fiance Gabe and I dancing. I think it really captures our essence!

I am so pumped to dive into this work and can not wait to serve this community in a new, exciting capacity. 

With so much hope for what is to come, 

Allie