2020 Essays on Race and Diversity was a four-essay series addressing issues of race and diversity from Camp’s perspective. The first essay in the series is a joint statement from Executive Director Ken Bontrager and Program Director Kevin Smith. The remaining three are essays expanding on themes in the first by Ken Bontrager. The project…
I’ve been eligible to vote for 30 years, but – like many in my generation – I’ve never felt like a politician or party truly represented me. They may win me at one point, but they’ll loose me in the next. When I have voted, it always seemed I was going to the polls holding…
Ken BontragerOctober 2, 2020Fourth of Four / 2020 Essays on Race and Diversity Camp Deerpark, from the beginning in 1969, has been a place where people of all cultures have come together to break down barriers. In June, Kevin Smith shared his perspective on race relations and diversity. Following is the fourth and final short…
Ken BontragerSeptember 4, 2020Third of Four / 2020 Essays on Race and Diversity Camp Deerpark, from the beginning in 1969, has been a place where people of all cultures have come together to break down barriers. In June Kevin Smith shared his perspective on race relations and diversity. Following is the third of four short…
Camp’s mission statement says we offer people the opportunity to fellowship in “serenity”. Serenity literally means “clear skies” — a state of refuge from the storms of the World. Right now, our World does feel pretty stormy with a divided country going into an election and numerous disasters and conflicts abroad and at home. Because…
Ken BontragerJuly 25, 2020Second of Four / 2020 Essays on Race and Diversity Camp Deerpark, from the beginning in 1969, has been a place where people of all cultures have come together to break down barriers. A few weeks ago Kevin Smith shared his perspective on race relations and diversity. Following is the second of…
Ken Bontrager with Kevin SmithJune 26, 2020First of Four / 2020 Essays on Race and Diversity With the fire blazing and counselors organizing their campers, Talibah calls out in a loud clear voice, “What time is it?” The reply is even louder but less committed, “Worship time.” “What time is it?” Now in full unison,…