In recent days, the Manitoba Camping Association (MCA) Board of Directors became aware of a campaign targeting Jewish camps across Canada, including two MCA-accredited member camps: BB Camp Kenora and Camp Massad of Manitoba. The article contains claims and characterizations that the Board finds deeply concerning. In particular, it includes language and rhetoric that we believe reflects discriminatory and antisemitic themes, including accusations rooted in longstanding stereotypes related to Jewish identity, Zionism, and Jewish community institutions.  
 
While the MCA recognizes that individuals and organizations may hold a wide range of perspectives on international events, the MCA is concerned that this article appears to be part of a broader effort to delegitimize Jewish camps across Canada, and Jewish community life through public pressure campaigns aimed at accreditation bodies. Campaigns of this nature are harmful, divisive, and inconsistent with the values that Manitoba’s camp community strives to uphold. We are particularly troubled by attempts to use political narratives to question the legitimacy of camps serving Jewish children and families, and to call for consequences against camps and their staff based on religious and cultural association. 
 
As you know, the MCA is not a political body; we will not weigh in on any geopolitical events or conflicts. To be clear, we do not assess camps on religion, ethnicity, or cultural identity. Our mission is to support Manitoba/North Western Ontario camps through accreditation, education, and leadership, and to ensure camps meet established standards related to safety, governance, and quality of programming.
 
MCA remains committed to ensuring that all camps in Manitoba and NW Ontario are environments where children, staff, volunteers, and families feel safe, respected, and protected. BB Camp Kenora and Camp Massad of Manitoba are accredited MCA member camps and operate within the standards and parameters expected from any accredited member camp. We continue to educate ourselves to better understand the evolving environment and to ensure our response reflects best practices in organizational safety and resilience. We will not allow intimidation, discrimination, harassment, or hate to take root within Manitoba’s camp community. 

We respect the rights of all Canadians to engage in respectful dialogue. The MCA will not tolerate harassment, intimidation, antisemitism, or discrimination directed at any member camp, staff member, or community. Our immediate priority remains the safety and well-being of everyone connected to MCA camps. We will continue to keep members informed as appropriate. If you have questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out directly. 
 
Thank you for your continued leadership in providing safe, welcoming camp experiences for all children and youth across Manitoba/NW Ontario.

Sincerely, 
The Manitoba Camping Association Board of Directors