Jaykumar (Jay) Mehta, the manager of the Community Benefits Resource Center and our beloved colleague, mentor, and friend at Jobs to Move America, passed away unexpectedly on November 11, 2024. Jay’s passing leaves a deep void in our hearts and our community, where he made an undeniable mark through his dedication, passion, and commitment to justice and equity.
Jay was more than just a colleague—he was a vital force who inspired and uplifted those around him. He is remembered for his kindness, warmth, and incredible sense of humor both as JMA’s Northeast team director and most recently at the helm of CBARC. Through Jay’s leadership we were able to develop CBARC.
Jay was an excellent mentor, colleague, and leader. His positive energy was contagious, and his kindness had a lasting impact on everyone he met. So many benefited, directly and indirectly from his generosity, few could match his passion and dedication to fight for economic and social justice. His memory and spirit live on in the Community Benefits Agreement Resource Center, which he helped bring to fruition. Although his absence leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, his legacy at JMA, in the labor movement, and as a caring friend and colleague will always be remembered. — Athena Last
Jay joined JMA in 2019 as a Senior Researcher for New Jersey, bringing with him years of experience in research, campaigning, and advocacy at Unite Here and the Working Families Party. Over time, he became a big part of our JMA family, embodying the principles of solidarity and community-driven change. He played a huge role in our success in winning a CBA at New Flyer, bringing his strategic smarts and experience to the work. As Northeast Director, Jay led by example, always striving for excellence while maintaining an approach that was deeply rooted in empathy, collaboration, and justice. We were thrilled that he agreed to manage and launch CBARC and share JMA’s work with new communities and audiences.
When Jay joined JMA, he brought with him a calm and sure presence—directing his sharp strategic and deliberate thinking towards his passion for workers’ rights and against the injustice he saw in the world. Towards his colleagues, respect and thoughtfulness; towards those “who could do better,” firm sternness. His deep chuckle and generous leadership will be remembered.
— Mo-Yain Tham
Jay was an incredible colleague. He taught us a lot—about how to campaign effectively, how to maneuver around difficult actors, how to think like a corporation. And it was the same ability to put himself in someone else’s shoes that could both tell us what a company was likely to do next and to have deep empathy for his colleague’s perspectives and ideas.
Jay had such a big and open heart, and we were lucky enough to get to know some of his loves. His dog, Ziggy, who sometimes graced his Zooms if we were lucky. His niece and nephew and in-laws next door. His neighborhood of Astoria, Queens, which he would walk around for hours. And of course, his wife, Karen, whom he absolutely adored.
We miss him greatly. As we mourn the loss of our dear friend and colleague, we also celebrate the lasting impact he made on all of us—through his work, his dedication to community, and his devotion to the people he loved. Jay’s legacy will continue to guide us as we continue this work.
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