Written By: Kirsty McDonald, PALS Program Coordinator, & Jo Pressimone, PALS Advancement Manager
Each month, the PALS team spends some time learning about and discussing a topic to broaden our understanding of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This past month, we read articles, watched news reports, and listened to podcasts about LGBTQ+ rights, and specifically the recent proliferation of anti-trans legislation in local and state governments across the country.
This topic was a challenging one to discuss; both of us felt such strong empathy for the individuals impacted by these laws. It is deeply upsetting to see lawmakers target an already marginalized population. It is especially unsettling to see how trans-youth, their families, and caregivers are being targeted by their neighbors in some states. Our hearts go out to all of these families who are feeling ostracized and afraid due to these current events, and we stand with parents and caregivers who continue to fight for and defend their children every day.
What does this all mean for PALS? PALS Mission is one of welcome and inclusion. As a team, the PALS staff is committed to creating safe, welcoming, and supportive environments where all participants can be their authentic selves. A lot of members of the PALS family have experienced exclusion and isolation in various spaces, but PALS has been and will always be a place of joy, warmth, laughter, and safety. We extend this same welcome to all people regardless of gender expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, economic background, ability, or religion.
One opportunity to deepen our commitment to inclusion this year is through mixed-gender teams and pairings. As we get closer to camp, our Program Leaders begin the process of pairing Partners and Peers together to support the transformative friendships that are the catalyst for changing attitudes and inspiring a world of belonging. When building pairs and teams, our Program Leads consider many factors including age, location, interests, activity levels and more. After piloting mixed gender teams and pairings in 2019 and 2021, PALS is confident that gender does not have to be a factor in matching Partners and Peers.
PALS is committed to building a world of inclusion for all people, and this starts by creating program environments where everyone is welcome. We are excited to continue to grow and adapt in this space to ensure all people feel welcome at our programs. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Kirsty at kirsty@palsprograms.org.