Camp Akita values and celebrates all campers, including those who are members of the LGBTQ+ community. Camp Akita has welcomed campers and staff who are part of the lesbian, gay, and bi communities for many years. Camp Akita has also welcomed trans and nonbinary campers, but we feel we can do a better job. Our hope is that by updating and sharing our policies, Camp Akita can become more inclusive, accepting, and affirming of trans and gender-diverse young people.
We recognize that trans youth often face stressful, unwelcoming, and even hostile environments in their daily lives. We are sad to know that rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide are much higher among this group. Camp Akita’s core values of community, authenticity, compassion, and acceptance extend to all campers, and “all” includes those who are trans or gender-diverse.
We want all to be aware of our updated Summer 2022 policies regarding gender diversity.
Back
Camp Akita believes there is no “right way” to be a girl or boy and encourages all campers to be themselves regardless of cabin assignment. Campers may wear whatever makes them comfortable; no campers will be expected to dress “like a girl” or “like a boy.” There remains no dress code at Camp Akita, except that clothing may not include references to drugs, alcohol, sex, profanity, or other slogans or images that may be threatening or offensive to others.
Camp Akita Staff will respect and use the names and pronouns that correspond with how campers introduce themselves. If a camper chooses to use a different name or pronouns than those listed on their registration form, Counselors will use the name and pronouns campers use for themselves..
Counselors and Staff
Camp Akita Counselors are assigned to cabins based on gender identity—and always have been. Camp Akita has never required Counselors (or campers) to disclose any details of their gender identity or transitions, and we do not plan to create such a policy. All Staff undergo background checks and professional training, including sessions on child sexual abuse prevention (Darkness to Light), suicide prevention training, and how to care for campers of all gender identities.
Looking Ahead to 2023: All-Gender Cabin Option
In 2023, we plan to include an all-gender cabin option. This is a good option for campers who prefer to bunk with children of other genders, campers who identify as non-binary, campers who want to bunk with a friend who is non-binary, or campers who feel this is the best fit for any reason. Fraternal twins who want to bunk together might enjoy living in an all-gender cabin. Trans campers are welcome in all bunks including the all-gender cabin. The all-gender cabin will be an “opt-in” experience and only those who select this option will be assigned to the cabin.
Why offer these accommodations?
Camp Akita believes camp is for everyone! We welcome, affirm, and support campers of all gender identities and expressions, and have for many years. Providing inclusive housing, changing areas, and restrooms allows us to put our beliefs into action and live out our core values, which include authenticity and acceptance. Learn more in our Statement of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Will I be notified if a trans camper is in my child’s cabin?
No. In keeping with our prior policies, families will not be notified of the names, medical histories, or any other personal information about their child’s cabin mates before, during, or after their session.
Will I be notified if a trans Counselor is in my child’s cabin?
No. In keeping with our prior policies, families will not be notified of the names, medical histories, or any other personal information about their child’s Counselors before, during, or after their session.
What kind of training will staff receive?
All Counselors will be trained on how to create a safe and welcoming space for campers of all genders in every cabin. All Staff undergo background checks and professional training, including sessions on child sexual abuse prevention (Darkness to Light), suicide prevention training, and how to care for campers of all gender identities.
Will the inclusion of trans or gender diverse campers take away from my camper’s cabin experience?
Not at all! Creating a tight-knit community within each cabin remains the cornerstone of the Camp Akita experience. We will continue to train Counselors that there are many ways to identify and express ourselves, and all identities and self-expressions will be accepted and celebrated in all cabins—as they always have been at Camp Akita.
Will campers and Counselors discuss gender identity at camp?
Maybe! It’s difficult to predict what topics of conversation will arise as campers and Counselors share about their lives and faith. We do not have any kind of gender identity curriculum, but if gender identity comes up in conversation, we do not feel it is off limits, just as race, ethnicity, religion, and other topics are not off limits when discussed with respect and authenticity. Counselors receive training on how to lead age-appropriate conversations, prevent and respond to bullying, and keep the focus of storytelling on campers, not Counselors.
Do other camps have policies like these?
Yes! Camp Akita is accredited by the American Camp Association, a national organization that sets standards for health, safety, and program quality for over 2,400 camps across the nation. The American Camp Association provides guidance for working with Trans Campers. Camp Akita has also worked with Transplaining, a professional consultant for organizations (including summer camps) looking to make safer and more inclusive spaces for trans and non-gender conforming youth.
I'm unfamiliar with some of these terms. Where can I learn more?
National Center of Transgender Equity defines terms like Transgender and Non-Binary
The American Camp Association provides guidance for Serving the Needs of Trans Campers.
Transgender Children & Youth: Understanding the Basics.
.The Trevor Project: Gender Identity.