A Year of Justice: My Journey with First Shift Justice Project
Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of serving as the Virginia Outreach Coordinator with First Shift Justice Project through my fellowship with Avodah, a Jewish organization that aligns Jewish values with social justice. Before beginning this journey, I hadn’t fully realized how deeply my Judaism informs my commitment to justice. As a Black Trans woman raised in a pluralistic household, I’ve often lived in the in-between—navigating dual identities, seldom feeling fully accepted in any one space. But it’s through these intersections that I’ve come to understand the transformative power of community. In inclusive spaces, I’ve learned that the pressure to conform lessens, and what emerges instead is space to belong as my whole self.
At First Shift, and through the rhythms of Shabbat, Torah study, Jewish holidays, and community at The Bayit, I’ve found room to embrace imperfection—not as failure, but as the bedrock of growth. These experiences have shown me that the path to understanding ourselves is not linear or easy; it’s marked by vulnerability, curiosity, and courage. My spiritual practices and my advocacy work have grown in tandem. I now see clearly how my Jewish values and my pursuit of justice are not separate efforts—they’re braided together, grounding me in purpose.
When I learned I’d be joining First Shift as the 2024–2025 Avodah Staffer and Virginia Outreach Coordinator, I felt equal parts joy and self-doubt. My main responsibility is giving "Know Your Rights" presentations to diverse communities across Virginia. At first, I questioned how I could teach others about workplace laws when I was just beginning to learn about them myself. But I dove in, spending the first two weeks studying the legal frameworks and protections workers need to understand.
With the support of my incredible team, I gradually built confidence. My first solo presentation was nerve-wracking—but it went smoothly. I realized I wasn’t just reciting information; I was facilitating dialogue and empowering people. That moment reminded me that uncertainty is not weakness—it’s a starting point. When met with preparation and support, it becomes a catalyst for growth.
First Shift’s mission is to empower parents and caregivers—primarily women—through free legal services to combat workplace discrimination. In doing this work, I’ve seen firsthand how systemic barriers—rooted in capitalism, racism, sexism, and xenophobia—prevent many caregivers from accessing the accommodations they need. These obstacles are intensified by intersections of race, gender, class, immigration status, language, and geography.
For example, many of our clients are non-English speakers, particularly Spanish speakers, who often hesitate to advocate for themselves out of fear—whether due to language barriers, employer retaliation, or visa status. These structural inequities are often exploited, making it harder for parents and caregivers to secure accommodations that are legally theirs. I’ve seen how power imbalances in the workplace can ripple into every area of a family’s health and stability.
Even with our team’s deep commitment, our work is constrained by funding. Many communities still lack access to the legal resources we offer. This inequity underscores the urgent need for sustained support and investment in legal advocacy for marginalized caregivers.
Through this fellowship, I’ve deepened my understanding of advocacy—not just as a tool for systemic change, but as an act of love and solidarity. I’ve seen how effective advocacy requires listening, humility, and a willingness to keep learning. I’ve grown personally and professionally—gaining confidence in my voice, clarity in my purpose, and a deeper appreciation for the resilience of the communities we serve.
Ultimately, this year has helped me embrace a Judaism rooted in justice, care, and collective liberation. My work is shaped by the Jewish principle of tzedek—justice—as well as chesed, or loving-kindness. I carry these values into every conversation, every presentation, and every moment of doubt that becomes a doorway to strength.
Even as my time with First Shift winds down, the lessons I’ve learned—about justice, identity, and what it means to show up for others—will stay with me. I’m proud to be part of a movement that not only uplifts marginalized voices but also reimagines what justice can look like when we bring our full selves to the table.
By: Ann West
