I apologize for my lack of content posting to this blog. (if anyone even reads this thing) However, in my defense I did tell readers in my very first post that I do NOT consider myself to be a writer. I am doing my best to give this another go!
Memorial Day weekend (in the US) was the time I spent my first time ever at a camp in the woods. If you live in Arizona (which is for the most part a conservative state) you would probs be surprised about an LGBTQ+ Outdoors Gay Camp Program in Prescott. The camp is known as OUTdoors Campchella. :) I have posted a video about my experiences, talking about all of the amazing people I met and now message on an almost daily basis. This was something that has been recommended to my by several friends that I met at our local LGBT Youth Center. Over that past couple years of growing into adulthood I am sad to say that visits with such friends are very rare. Anyway I have known about the camp for the past two years and over the summer I finally made the last minute decision to apply. That's right, because so many people want to attend every year they select campers through an application process.
To my surprise I was selected and even though I will admit that I was not expecting to, once I received my acceptance letter I was then very much excited about the experience. Just another quick detail this program is orientated for LGBTQ Youth in Arizona as well as youth from other states. The age range is 11-24 with different workshops for three days. These workshops can be about queer politics and advocacy for adjustments in laws, gay history, trans history, a workshop learning about different sources of strength (SOS), art, dance, music, ropes courses, and of course glitter all around!
This experience really helped to open my eyes about how the LGBTQ community is evolving and reminded me of the importance that we are not alone and that we must support each other. Some people came with stories of having no support at home, camp was the only place that they felt entirely safe to be able to express themselves, identify openly with their proper pronouns and identities. Most of the learning came from fellow youth willing to open up and share their thoughts.
I was very happy at how accommodating everyone was when I arrived. I knew several of the staff from my city and they were quick to help me by describing the landscape right away. I normally do not travel with a cane as much as I did over that weekend. There were two reasons for this, 1- it was nature and rocks and shit. (I LOVE nature, just hate tripping LOL) and 2- Sometimes its easier when people see you with a cane instead of having to explain your visual limits repeatedly. :) Although I was more than happy to explain my visual impairment with others, I felt that not being ashamed of using my cane would be the right attitude to bring more diversity to the camp.
The diversity of the gay community was well represented and I have met so many amazing people. ( I know I've said that already but you have NO IDEA how much I mean that) I have been inspired by peoples stories, their character, willingness to listen, and their overall personality! The only thing that I am unhappy with is the fact that I did not attend during the previous years. I only have one more year to attend as a camper. But the memories and connections made are what really count. I hope to continue to talk with my fellow unicorns from Camp OUTdoors. I love you all and CANNOT wait to see you again! -hugs-