As you probably heard, the Boy Scouts of America is considering lifting its ban on openly gay scouts and scoutmasters. Well, we’ve gotten a note from GLAAD indicating the BSA is accepting public feedback about the possible change.
“The Boy Scouts would not, under any circumstances, dictate a position to units, members, or parents,” said a spokesman for the Boy Scouts of America, Deron Smith, in a statement. “This would mean there would no longer be any national policy regarding sexual orientation, and the chartered organizations that oversee and deliver Scouting would accept membership and select leaders consistent with each organization’s mission, principles, or religious beliefs.”
That means gay kids who happen to grow up in progressive neighborhoods will be welcomed with open arms. But those in small-minded communities face the same ban they always have.
Does that make sense?
We encourage everyone to contact the Scouts and urge them to end this ban—and maybe adopt a national non-discrimination policy while they’re at it.
How about we take this to the next level?
Our newsletter is like a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) of LGBTQ+ entertainment and pop culture, served up with a side of eye-candy.
vklortho
At least it’s getting better somewhere. Of course changing their policy instead of delegating downwards would be better.
searchcz
The Boy Scouts of America say that they “provide a program for young people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness” and that they “build the future leaders of this country” – according to their website, scouting.org.
Character, leadership and responsible citizenship. An organization with these characteristics would have the courage to make their own decision to do the right thing here, rather than creating some public opinion poll that they can hide behind. What a poor example to the youth that the BSA purports to lead.
Spike
Please, when ever you ask the majority in reference to the minority, the majority sides with the majority.
This is only becoming awkward for the Mormon/Christian run Boy Scouts because of the corporate donors pulling out . . . for years they have discriminated while continuing to to use Govt. facilities for meetings/camps at no cost.