Q. Our daughter works at a day summer camp it is mainly secular but some of the participants are frum. Can she work on Tisha Beav, given that she would loose her wages for that day?
A. Shulchan Aruch (O.H. 554: 22) mentions two traditions in regards to working on Tisha B'av. Remoh and Biur Halocho (ibid.) rule that today it is the generalized custom not to do any work until chatzos (mid-day). However, work that if not done will create a loss (Dovor H'ovud) is permitted as in Chol Hamoed (Shulchan Aruch ibid. 23).
Horav Shlomo Miller's Shlit"a opinion is that although it is not a Dovor H'ovud for your daughter unless there is a possibility that she may loose her position, it is for the campers who will lack their person in charge. Besides there may not be any melochos involved, if they can abstain from writing, drawing or similar activities.
Moreover, the reason work is prohibited is to avoid disregarding and ignoring the mourning of the Churban Bais Hamikdosh. Since this is a Jewish summer camp, albeit secular, teachings and stories of the meaning of the day could be included in the program, especially if there are some frum attendants.
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as advised by Horav Shlomo Miller Shlit"a
Important Numbers
