4 Powerful Ways To Become An Ally At Summer Camp
Summer Camp is a place where both campers and staff can grow, learn, and become the best versions of themselves. Creating an environment where everyone feels free to be themselves, without fear of judgment, is key to making the most of the camp experience. In that spirit, here are some ways to be an ally at camp this summer.
Active Listening
One of the most powerful ways to be an effective ally at camp is through active listening. Campers may want to share their thoughts and experiences with you. By truly paying attention to what they're saying, understanding their message, and responding with empathy, you'll build trust and create a safe space for them to be themselves. Ask open-ended questions to encourage self-expression, and let campers feel seen and understood. This simple act of listening can make a world of difference.
Respecting and Normalizing Pronouns
For some campers and staff, using and sharing pronouns can feel awkward at first. But if everyone makes it a point to introduce themselves with their pronouns, it becomes much easier for everyone to follow suit. It takes little effort to wear a pronoun badge or share your pronouns, but it can have a significant impact, especially for 2SLGBTQI+ campers and staff. Camp is an inclusive space where everyone deserves to be themselves, and by normalizing pronouns, we can make the environment even more welcoming. Why not give it a try? It could help make someone’s summer a lot better.
Support
At camp, there will be times when campers or staff need someone to lean on. This is a wonderful opportunity to show your support and help others feel validated. For example, if someone is trying something new or expressing themselves in a new way, ask how you can help. A simple "How can I support you?" goes a long way. If you're unsure how to follow up, just ask. This approach shows that you are putting the needs of others first, making them feel more comfortable being themselves and reinforcing your role as a supportive ally.
Be Your Most Authentic Self
One of the best ways to create an inclusive environment is by embracing your authenticity. By celebrating what makes you unique, you inspire others to do the same. Campers and staff come from diverse backgrounds like different ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, and experiences. Canada’s rich diversity, including the traditions of Indigenous peoples, is something to be celebrated. When we embrace this diversity with respect, we not only create a more inclusive space but also expand our understanding of the world around us.
Diversity and inclusion are powerful forces. When campers and staff are free to live and express themselves authentically, they contribute to a space that is both welcoming and empowering. That’s what makes camp such a magical experience. So, why not take the opportunity to make someone’s summer even better by embracing these principles of allyship?
