Christian Camp in Colorado Sues State Over Gender Expression Rules

A Christian camp in Colorado, operating since 1948, is taking legal action against the state after being informed that it must adapt to accommodate various gender expressions in bathrooms and other facilities.

Camp Idrahaje, whose name translates to “I want to have Jesus,” has resisted adhering to the state government’s guidelines regarding gender identity in its facilities. One representative expressed a sentiment of respect towards the camp’s belief system, indicating that it should be honored.

For Rohwer, this situation has turned into a personal dilemma, especially as he acknowledged families within the camp who identify as transgender. “I genuinely care for kids who feel out of place,” Rohwer mentioned, emphasizing his love for all children, regardless of their backgrounds. He noted that Camp Idrahaje has been committed to serving children from all walks of life since its inception and has held a resident camp license since 1995.

However, recent changes in Colorado’s policies now present a stark choice for the camp: comply by allowing the loss of traditional gender designations or uphold its biblical stance, which requires maintaining separate facilities for boys and girls. This presents a challenging conundrum, as Rohwer articulates the difficulties posed by these new regulations.

Alliance Defending Freedom lawyer, Andrea Dill, representing the camp, stated that the government should not dictate what religious summer camps can believe regarding human sexuality. She criticized the state’s agenda as potentially harmful, fitting within a wider context of global resistance to such policies.

Meanwhile, Lisa Roy, executive director of early childhood programs in Colorado, remarked that the department aims to collaborate effectively with faith-based organizations while upholding the law to foster participation in its programs. The department, however, has not provided a response to recent inquiries regarding the legal dispute.