Yaritza Fernandez, a 14-year-old attendee of the Rural & Migrant Ministry’s summer camp in upstate New York, shared her hopes of hope, justice, and empowerment through doodles and quiet confidence. The camp, attended by children of immigrants and migrant workers, offers a refuge from the burdens of home and a chance for kids to just be kids while gaining confidence to use their voices. Many returning campers, like Maria Christina Martinez, who faced her parents’ deportation and have now become camp leaders, navigate the challenges of growing up in an immigrant family in a politically tense climate. The camp creates a safe space for children to escape, learn, and engage with their roots and identities while providing opportunities for personal growth and building community.
The camp, founded in 1989, aims to empower children through activities like drumming, dancing, and art projects, allowing them to explore their talents and gain confidence. Children like Allan and Seylah find a sense of belonging and support at camp, while others like Esther and Laura Garcia, who have faced language barriers and immigration challenges, thrive through the camp’s programs. Through workshops and activities, campers learn about advocacy, civic engagement, and empowerment, preparing them to navigate the complexities of their identities and futures.
The camp, led by Reverend Richard Witt, serves as a transformative experience for children, providing them with the tools and skills to advocate for themselves and their communities. As they explore their heritage, connect with other young people facing similar struggles, and engage in discussions about social justice, they are inspired to become leaders and change-makers in their own right. Through their experiences at camp and interactions with role models like Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “Hamilton” actor Tamar Greene, the children learn the power of their voices and the importance of standing up for what they believe in, ultimately shaping a brighter future for themselves and their families.
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