The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), has taken the decision to temporarily close its renowned Bruin Woods Family Camp program in response to disturbing allegations of hazing and assault made by two student employees.
Samea Derrick and Lydia Dixon, both UCLA students, filed a lawsuit against the camp and the University of California Board of Regents, seeking accountability for the alleged incidents.
Bruin Woods Family Camp, established in 1985, serves as a retreat for UCLA alumni to reconnect with their alma mater and introduce their families to the rich traditions of the university. Located on the sprawling UCLA Lake Arrowhead Lodge Property spanning 50 acres, the camp typically runs for 10 consecutive weeks each summer, accommodating up to 80 families per week.
However, in October, Derrick and Dixon filed a lawsuit that detailed deeply troubling experiences of sexual assault, hazing, physical and verbal abuse, sensory deprivation, forced nudity, and coercive drinking games. These activities, referred to as “traditions” by the camp’s counselors, are alleged to have taken place for decades.
The UCLA camp sexual assault lawsuit was filed to hold the institution accountable for failing to protect its staff and creating a toxic and dangerous workplace for young people.
While court documents revealed that the University of California Board of Regents denied the allegations and argued that the plaintiffs had not exhausted internal grievance procedures, UCLA has taken swift action by temporarily closing the camp. The venue remains open to alumni and their families, but regular programming will not be offered as there will be no student counselors present.
The case is scheduled to go to trial on February 8th. Individuals seeking support and resources related to women’s rights can contact the Women’s Rights Group for assistance.
