Campers Learn To Overcome Prejudice

A program celebrates 15 years of diversity and leadership.  News On 6 anchor Jennifer Loren reports the Oklahoma Center for Community and Justice is once again welcoming campers to Camp Anytown.

Like every year, the campers seemed to be learning some very valuable life lessons.  News On 6 anchor Jennifer Loren was there to host a media workshop.

She was greeted by 52 Camp Anytown delegates, armed with open minds and eager spirits, who were already transforming into new people.

"As of now, I feel almost like a completely different person, just from what we've learned here already," said camper CeeCee Jones.

Camp Anytown takes students through fun, and sometimes emotional, exercises, teaching them to be leaders and to appreciate the diversity that surrounds them.

"The best thing about it, just getting to know, like, all the people and what they have to offer, and just how different we all are, but can do the same thing," said camper Courtney Todd.

Year after year, camp counselors say they're amazed at how natural it is for these young people to break down barriers and embrace diversity.

"Now they're walking around as if they're brothers and sisters, and then to the end, when it's kind of sad to leave and everyone wants to stay, it's almost like this is their Utopia," said camp counselor Micshaw Benson. 

But it is a Utopia that doesn't have to end at Anytown, it can live on through the students in their towns.

"I know I will be more friendly to people. I will talk to more people. I won't stay inside my circle," said camper Charlean Crawford.

"I'll appreciate other races and cultures and understand them more," said Camper CeeCee Jones.

Fifteen years and the same message:  overcome prejudice and discrimination and create positive change all around you.

"And that's what we need, not only here, but throughout the world," said camp counselor Micshaw Benson.

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