Parshat Mishpatim presents a series of civil and ethical laws that emphasize justice, fairness, and how we should treat one another. Just as the Israelites were called to uphold these laws as a community, we are called to embrace similar values within our Capital Camps community.
There are many aspects of this D’var that resonate with the values we foster at Capital Camps. One in particular resonates with me: when G-d instructs Moses, “You shall not oppress nor do any wrong to strangers, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.” This verse deeply reflects my own experience at Capital Camps.
I first joined the Capital Camps community in the summer of 2018, coming in as a stranger from Georgia, to serve as a songleader and Benjamin Village counselor. I had no idea what to expect, stepping into a well-established community with existing friend groups and circles. Yet, from the moment I arrived, I was met with such warmth and hospitality. People took the time to teach me camp traditions and fill me in on all the little “things to know.” That summer was unforgettable, and it left me eager to return in 2019. Re-joining the community as a full-time team member in 2024 was my greatest pleasure, and I only hope that I can make “strangers” to the community feel as welcome as they did to me, just as G-d expressed to Moses.
I imagine campers and counselors have the same experience as me when they first set foot in their cabin/tent/village — given that people come back summer after summer after summer. However, there are a few other pieces of G-d’s law that can be seen in the larger camp community.
- Camp for All: One of the core values we hold at Capital Camps is the idea of “Camp for All,” embodied in our Atzma’im Inclusion program. This program ensures that we welcome campers from all walks of life—regardless of background, denominational affiliation, gender, race, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status, including those with diverse intellectual, emotional, and physical abilities. We are committed to providing the support needed for anyone with unique needs, ensuring they have a successful summer. We emphasize the value of inclusion and encourage our community members to welcome everyone into their cabins, tents, or villages, no matter how different they may be. After all, our differences make us stronger. We continue to promote this value, especially during Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAIM).
- Am Echad (One People): Our theme for the summer 2024 was Am Echad, or “One People.” We take great pride in welcoming Israeli campers and staff into our community, particularly during times of unrest in Israel. Growing up in a camp environment, it’s natural to form tight-knit friend groups that return each year, which can sometimes make it difficult to include newcomers. However, we are incredibly grateful to our community members who have warmly embraced our Israeli campers and counselors, making them feel like they’ve been part of the community all along.
- Camper Care: Another important teaching from Mishpatim is the law of kindness and consideration for others. Whether it’s helping someone in need or showing empathy to those in difficult circumstances, the Torah calls us to adopt a compassionate approach. Camp is an ideal setting for practicing these values. Whether it’s offering support to a camper feeling homesick, encouraging a teammate who’s struggling, or showing understanding to someone who made a mistake, the teachings of kindness and empathy from Mishpatim play a vital role in creating a positive, nurturing environment at camp.
Through these examples, we see how the timeless values of Mishpatim continue to guide our community, shaping our relationships and fostering an environment of inclusion, care, and respect for all.
Warmly,
Maddie Siegel, Communications & Marketing Associate