Camp Mystic has long been a sacred place—where young girls grew in faith, friendship, and joy along the banks of the Guadalupe River. But on July 4th, that place was devastated by floodwaters that rose with terrifying speed. Twenty-seven campers and counselors lost their lives. Others are still missing. Families and entire communities are shattered by grief.

This was not just a natural disaster—it was one of the worst tragedies in Texas camp history. And yet, through it all, stories have emerged of counselors leading songs as the floodwaters rose, of girls comforting each other in the dark, of unimaginable bravery.

We believe Camp Mystic must be rebuilt—not just for future generations, but as a lasting memorial to those who never made it home. Their names, their lives, their light deserve a place to be remembered.

We call on Governor Greg Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, and Texas state legislators to dedicate emergency recovery funds toward the rebuilding of Camp Mystic as a permanent memorial site, with input from the families and community who hold this place sacred.

This isn’t just about a camp. It’s about honoring the girls, young women, and staff who died in service of each other—and preserving the place that shaped so many lives.

Photo Credit: Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images