HOW NOTES FROM THE FIELD: INCLUSIVITY AT THE Y! (2808 hits)
For Immediate Release From The Biden Forum!
Ever since I was a little kid learning how to swim at my local Y branch (YMCA of Delaware), the YMCA has been an important part of my life. I first attended YMCA Camp Tockwogh when I was 10 years old, and every summer for 15 years since I have looked forward to packing my trunk and heading down to the eastern shore to find my “happy place” at this amazing residential camp. The counselors and directors at Camp Tockwogh have served as fantastic mentors and role models for me, and growing up attending camp each summer has helped me to become the person I am today.
Not only have I met some of my best friends at Camp Tockwogh, but it continues to be a place where I can be part of a diverse community. The YMCA does a fantastic job of building and encouraging diverse communities to thrive. At camp every summer I met counselors and campers from all over the United States, as well as from different countries. All of the different stories and cultures that people bring to camp build an environment that fosters growth.
As a camper I was encouraged to try new things, and expand my heart and mind to accept and learn from the differences of others. As a staff member I have felt supported and loved as a member of the LGBTQ community, as well as motivated to share my coming out story. Sharing my story with other members of the YMCA community and Camp Tockwogh staff has increased my comfort level in sharing my story with others. Discussing topics such as race, gender, and s*xuality can be intimidating, but one can without a doubt count on YMCA employees and community members to carry on these conversations with grace and respect.
