Disagreements, Inclusivity, and Camaraderie

This year, two of our long-time campers returned to Camp Kindred. They’ve been coming to our programs for years. They come from different neighborhoods in Milwaukee and come from different backgrounds. This summer, they were able to explore their differences and their similarities in new, meaningful ways. 

One of Kindred’s Foundations is “Community,” something that both campers embrace wholeheartedly. This summer at camp, during a discussion about using inclusive language, a disagreement arose on how to properly address a group of folks using the most inclusive language possible. 

Using a Kindred Circle, a group discussion used at camp to help dive into the root of a conflict, the cabin talked about their own identities and how they can bring what they are learning about inclusive language back home with them.

One camper mentioned that they’ve been on this journey for several years and being in such an inclusive space is not something they’re used to. Being on the defense comes naturally, and the ability to have an argument about the proper inclusive language is somewhat of a privilege! Another camper acknowledged beginning his journey of inclusivity and how he’s been using the Kindred community as a resource to further his knowledge and understanding. Both of them expressed that at home in their own communities, they feel as though they are constantly on the defense and always have their guard up. 

Coming out of the Kindred Circle, the cabin vowed to work together to understand inclusivity and inclusive language. The group walked away with the understanding that it’s okay to not have one answer to a problem, and more importantly how to see the perspective of others and “embrace the squish” (another Project Kindred tool that acknowledges that there won’t always be a simple answer to every question). 

The community that your support helps build allows campers to have these discussions at a young age and to recognize and develop the skills to address these situations. Thanks to you, camp provided a powerful experience that brought these incredible leaders together, and it continues to be a place that fosters friendships, breaks down barriers, and gives campers the chance to learn and grow from one another. 

Help provide more powerful experiences to Milwaukee’s young people!