Children of immigrants, migrants, and farmworkers attend a summer camp in upstate New York organized by Rural & Migrant Ministry. The camp offers them an escape and a chance to be kids away from their families’ hardships and immigration worries. Many campers have experienced ICE raids, family separations, and deportations, shaping their views and activism. Returning campers become counselors, like Maria Christina Martinez, who fought for her parents’ release and now works as a political organizer. The camp teaches kids to use their voices and advocate for themselves in a challenging political climate.
The camp gives children a safe space to express themselves through activities like drumming, dancing, and art. It empowers them to believe in themselves, build confidence, and learn about their cultural heritage. Some campers, like Esther and Allan, have only recently arrived in the U.S. from countries like Honduras and Guatemala, and struggle with adapting to a new language and culture. The camp provides a supportive environment for them to learn and grow.
The camp takes the children on surprise trips, exposing them to different experiences and ideas. They visit places like Ellis Island and Manhattan, broadening their perspectives and understanding of immigrant history and culture. The camp emphasizes empowerment, advocacy, and community building, preparing the children to navigate the challenges of being immigrant families in a complex and sometimes hostile environment. By equipping them with confidence and a sense of belonging, the camp aims to inspire them to create a better world for themselves and their communities.
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