Summer Camp Inclusion Statement

We believe that summer camp has the power to change lives, through even one week in a community that loves and supports one another unconditionally. Further, we believe that these life-changing camp experiences are for campers and staff members of every race, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and background. We believe that every person is created in the image of God, exactly as they are, with experiences and perspectives that are precious to God.

As an Episcopal ministry, rooted in the Baptismal Covenant, we strive to:

• Continue in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship; in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers. The simple acts of daily life together: prayer, meals, rest, and play, bring us into closer relationship and community.
• Seek and serve Christ in all people, loving our neighbors as ourselves. Our staff seeks to listen to others’ stories, consider their perspectives, and learn to treat people how they would like to be treated according to their needs and abilities. This is the mindset we invite campers into as they navigate daily life in community.
• Strive for justice and peace among all people, respecting the dignity of every human being by:
• Removing as many barriers to participation due to socioeconomic status as we can through: 
• Scholarship and tiered pricing systems
• Assistance with acquiring necessary items for camp with discretion and without judgment
• Making camp a safer place for people of color by:
• Examining and changing practices and systems at camp that were designed with whiteness as the “default”
• Making camp a safer place for LGBTQ+ campers by:
• Allowing each person to define themself. Using the name and pronouns campers ask to be called by, and respecting information that each person chooses to share or not share about their identity.
• Examining and changing practices and systems that operate on the assumption of binary gender and heterosexuality
• Supporting transgender and gender-expansive campers’ right to use the lodging spaces and bathrooms that are appropriate for them.

Finally, whenever we fall [short], we repent and return. If you have questions, concerns, or suggestions as to how we can better live up to these ideals at Claggett, we invite your conversation with camp leadership.

Questions on Gender Inclusive Housing? Download our FAQ sheet here!