Camp Everytown attendees opened up their arms and gave out hugs during lunch today as a part of Not In Our School campaign.

“Hugs are an easy way of showing people you care for them,” senior and Camp Everytown attendee Sisley Brewer said.

This is the first year Camp Everytown has put on a “Wanna Hug” event at school.

Junior and former Camp Everytown attendee Raven Warren said, “Camp Everytown got involved in this [Not In Our School week] because at camp we learn the different types of hugs and how they work. For example, the jock hug, which is a grab of the hands and a slap on the back.”

Students who go to Camp Everytown also receive necklaces with clothespin people on them called “hug necklaces” from attending teachers. The “Wanna Hug” event is similar to the hug necklace tradition in that the students and teachers give and receive hugs.

“I think the students wanted to bring the philosophies they learned at Camp Everytown of tolerance and non-hate to the school,” program associate Claudia Andrade of Camp Everytown said.

The event started with Camp Everytown members handing out stickers saying, “Wanna Hug?” and giving hugs out to students. Later members of Camp Everytown joined arms on the deck in a large group hug, singing and swaying to music.

“Hugs make you feel relieved and make your day better,” senior and Camp Everytown attendee Jenice Wilson said.

To many students and teachers, a hug and the “Wanna Hug” event symbolizes much more than just a physical hug.

“Personally, I think a hug demonstrates the connections we can make despite our differences,” said Magdalena Rivera, a teacher who attended Camp Everytown.

Warren said, “I really wanted to do something that everyone could participate in and feel accepted; and also know that they can come to those who were out and receive help or support from each other. Maybe even a hug.”

Camp Everytown is a place of learning and understanding people’s differences. Many Camp Everytown members hope to bring that spirit here to Paly.

“I really hope that because of our “Wanna Hug” event people have an idea not only that Paly is a supportive school, but a school that is willing to reach out with open arms and give a hug,” Warren said.