Well, I am back from Loma Mar in northern California. This was my third time at camp, and I must say, it was by far the best.
Presenting at camp this year: Holly Van Gulden, Robbin Rasbury, me, Susan Harris-O’Connor, and Beth Hall. (Not shown: Amanda Baden and Lisa Marie Rollins.)
Holly presented sessions on “Working On Our Own Racism” and “Behavior As the Language of Children.” Robbin discussed racial identity development in children, while Susan and I presented our respective views on race and identity in transracial families.
Amanda worked her tail off running “Face Time” groups for children and youth, and talking to parents during her session on “Race, Adoption and Culture.” Beth, the director of Pact, presented a session on transracial parenting and supporting children’s identities. I showed the old and new versions of Struggle For Identity. I also met with the Teen Group and watched part of Struggle with them, and then challenged them to develop story boards for their own video on transracial adoption, which were later presented to the parents.
One of the highlights was the Adult Adoptee Dinner. A group of us drove into Pescadero to Duarte’s for scrumptious food, drinks, and good conversation.
Back row: Mitali, Sara, Susan, Connie, Robbin, Cyndy, me.
Front row: Amanda, Lisa Marie, Mary (missing: Sue).
Of course, camp wouldn’t be camp without the kids, who were great. What a treat to be surrounded by other adoptees just like me, just like each other, all different colors and cultures.
You can see lots more photos of camp by clicking here.
More camp photos can be found in this album, too.
All in all, camp was awesome, and I can’t wait to go back next year! I got to meet the fabulosa Miss Lisa Marie Rollins. When camp was over, I chilled in East Bay. Lisa Marie was doing her performance piece as part of a larger show in Oakland. Funny, touching, and amazing. If you get a chance to see her, definitely check her out!
Lisa Marie reading poetry at the celebration on the last day of camp.
