Queer Camp in the American South: A Practice Note on Secular Church, Social Work, and Building Inclusivity

Arkansas was the first state in the United States to pass legislation banning access to gender affirming care, creating an outwardly hostile sociopolitical environment. Although the relationship between people who are LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, asexual, and other) and organized religion is complex, a small church in Arkansas saw the need for programming centering the queer youth experience. The church partnered with queer adults, youth, and allies to create and host Queer Camp, a weeklong camp for sixth through twelfth graders. Since 2021, more than 240 queer youth, allies, and families have participated in camp, social events, and other health and education services, giving access to critically lacking resources. Using queer theory, this article provides a process evaluation of Queer Camp. Preliminary findings indicate that this is a fruitful intersection for volunteers, queer youth, affirming parents, and the greater community to meet and cultivate space for creativity and nurturing.