Statement on Gender Inclusivity

Perlman Camp believes that every child should have the opportunity to experience the magic of camp. As such, we recognize the need to continue to evolve our policies to ensure we are meeting the needs of our LGBTQ+ community. Perlman Camp acknowledges that the needs of transgender and gender-expansive participants are unique and should be treated individually and in consultation with the participant (and parents, when appropriate). 

Privacy/Confidentiality

Perlman Camp shall ensure that all personally identifiable and medical information relating to an individual’s transgender or gender non-conforming status shall be kept confidential in accordance with applicable state, local and federal privacy laws. Representatives of Perlman Camp shall not disclose any information that may reveal a camper or staff member’s transgender status to others, including other parents or guardians and other camp staff, unless legally required to do so, or unless the camper or staff has authorized such disclosure.

All campers have the right to discuss and express their gender identity openly and to decide when, with whom, and how much to share private information. The fact that a camper begins exploring their gender identity while at camp, such as by using a pronoun or name that differs from their application name, does not authorize Perlman Camp to disclose this information to their own parent/guardian or to others. When contacting the parent/guardian of a camper, Perlman Camp staff will use the camper’s legal name and gender assigned at birth unless the camper, parent or guardian has specified otherwise. 

Names and Pronouns

Perlman Camp will honor the names and pronouns requested by campers and staff, regardless of whether a camper has legally changed their name or gender. Perlman staff will privately ask campers how they want to be addressed at camp and in the camp’s communication with the camper’s parents or guardians. 

Bunking and Facilities

Campers will be bunked according to their gender identity as provided by their parent or adult guardian. Campers who are transitioning genders during their years at camp may opt to remain in the bunk of their gender assigned at birth. 

In regards to gender non-conforming children, Perlman Camp staff will speak with the parent/guardian to find the best fit within our current bunk model. 

Any camper who is uncomfortable using a shared gender-segregated facility (public bathrooms, etc.), shall, upon the person’s request, be provided with a safe and non-stigmatizing alternative. This may include a privacy partition or curtain, provision to use a nearby private bathroom, or a separate changing schedule.