TRJ

TRJ Family Camp 2025 Newsletter Feature
By April Dinwoodie

Every July, the calendar turns our attention to freedom. Fireworks, flags, and family cookouts remind us of independence—but for those of us connected to adoption, freedom carries a deeper, more complex meaning.

At TRJ, we know that freedom doesn’t begin with independence alone. It begins with truth—and the courage to name it. It requires access to origins, permission to grieve, and space to explore identity in all its complexity. It requires support. It requires community. It requires love that tells the truth and makes room for transformation.

That’s why we gather.

At TRJ Family Camp 2025, we will come Together on the Journey—to center truth, celebrate culture, and connect in ways that nurture the full humanity of transracially adopted people and their families.

This year’s theme is more than a title. It’s a promise.
That no child, youth, or parent has to walk this path alone.
That our collective growth will be rooted in honesty, tenderness, and action.
That healing and joy can exist in the same room as grief and complexity.

Our programming is grounded in three pillars—CONNECT, GROW, and THRIVE—with clear goals and practical tools for both parents and children. Whether it’s a parent practicing emotional presence, a teen learning to share their story, or a whole family creating cultural rituals together, camp is a space to deepen connection and rediscover what belonging really means.

This year, we’re honored to welcome three dynamic presenters: Habeebah Rasheed Grimes, Jared Robinson, and Dr. Tony Hynes, whose lived and professional experiences will anchor powerful conversations with families. We’re also thrilled to have Fairy Hawk return to offer reiki and breathwork as a resource for restoration during the weekend. And this year, along with working with the campers, Miss Rachel will also be spending time with parents.  

A Special Saturday Event—Open to All

One of our most anticipated moments will take place Saturday, August 10, during our Hair & Identity Celebration, which will be open to the broader Ohio community and virtual guests alike.

This powerful experience will include:

• Blended Together Vision & Opening Remarks
• Storytelling with Miss Rachel
• A Dynamic Panel Conversation
• Live “Wash Day” Hair Care Demonstration featuring detangling, styling, and maintenance guidance
• Sponsor Highlights & Audience Q&A
• Closing Reflections

Whether you’re attending in person or virtually, this event is for parents, professionals, educators, and anyone who wants to better understand the intersection of hair, culture, and identity in transracial adoption. Stay tuned for RSVP details!

This is the work of freedom.
Not the kind that forgets or flattens the past—but the kind that creates a future where adopted people are empowered to know who they are, where they come from, and that they are never alone in the journey.

We are so glad you are here.
Let’s keep walking together.

With heart and solidarity,
April Dinwoodie & the TRJ Board of Directors