Finding Refuge in a Texas Summer Camp

In the face of rising anti-trans legislation and rhetoric in Texas, Color Splash Out has become a beacon of hope for queer and trans youth in the state’s poorest region. Led by nonbinary minister Yadi Martínez-Reyna, this small summer camp offers a rare respite from the scrutiny and anxiety that many trans kids experience in public spaces.

The camp’s existence is a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of its organizers, who have had to contend with funding cuts, harassment, and physical assaults. Camp director Adora Ysaguirre, a trans woman who was doxxed and lost her teaching job, embodies the courage and determination that defines this community.

For campers like Alastair Mendoza and Nix Pasivan, Color Splash Out provides a safe space to be themselves without fear of judgment. These young people have been forced to confront their identities in a hostile environment, and the camp’s sense of community and belonging is a welcome respite from that anxiety.

The lack of queer youth organizations in the Rio Grande Valley highlights the urgent need for spaces like Color Splash Out. Research has shown that LGBTQ+ youth who have at least one affirming space are less likely to attempt suicide – a statistic that is particularly relevant given the dire circumstances faced by many trans kids in Texas.

Color Splash Out is more than just a summer camp; it’s a mutual aid project that relies on the generosity and support of its community. Supplies are recycled, funding is crowdsourced, and volunteers come from far and wide to help make the camp happen. This DIY ethos speaks to the resourcefulness and adaptability that defines many marginalized communities.

The stories of the adults who attend Color Splash Out – parents, volunteers, and staff members alike – offer a poignant reminder of the impact that this camp has on its community. For Yadi Martínez-Reyna, it’s not just about creating a safe space for kids; it’s also about healing their own inner child through acts of bravery and kindness.

The federal funding cuts continue to take their toll on non-profits like Color Splash Out, making it more important than ever that we recognize the value and worth of these organizations. They are beacons of hope and resilience in the face of adversity, providing a vital lifeline for marginalized communities.

As the summer draws to a close, Color Splash Out will continue to inspire and empower its community – both in and out of the Rio Grande Valley. Its existence is a testament to the power of resilience, resourcefulness, and compassion, and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope. The bonds of community forged at Color Splash Out are a powerful counterpoint to the isolation and marginalization faced by many trans kids in Texas.