A popular summer camp in Crofton has lost its long-standing partnership with School District 68.
Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools announced last week that it’s severing all ties with Camp Qwanoes due to concerns over discriminatory employment practices.
Director of Communications for SD 68 Dale Burgos says the concerns were brought up after reports revealed that the summer camp’s hiring practices took an “inhospitable stance” towards the LGTBQIA2S+ students and families. These hiring practices were confirmed by Superintendent Scott Saywell.
Saywell says “Partnering with an organization that engages in discriminatory practices conflicts with the district’s commitment to providing an environment free from discrimination and promoting fairness and equal opportunities for all.”
Executive Director of Camp Qwanoes Scott Bayley says “We do not understand the SD 68 decision and believe that the truth has been misrepresented.” According to Bayley, they have received comments from SD 68 parents commenting that their children felt included and welcome, on their last school trip.
“When a public school group comes to Qwanoes there is no religious content or programs – the groups plan their own program.” Says Bayley who questions the decision by SD 68.
In their FAQ Camp Qwanoes says that they welcome campers from all backgrounds.
Grade 7 students from SD 68 schools had been attending year-end camping trips to Camp Qwanoes for around 40 years.
