The Inclusive Scouting Network
Dear Andrew Briggs,
We’re concerned and we hope you are too.
As you may have already heard, the Executive Council of the Boy Scouts of America released their proposed policy today, which keeps the gay ban in place for adult leaders but would prohibit kicking out openly gay Scout youth members “on the basis of sexual orientation or preference alone [emphasis added]”. The policy must be voted on at a national meeting of more than 1,400 Scout representatives in May and would not go into effect until 2014.
We believe the proposed policy is a small step forward, but does not go nearly far enough in addressing issues of discrimination against gay Boy Scout members and leaders. This policy maintains institutionalized discrimination, leaves open the possibility of harassment and bullying of gay youth, and continues to send the wrong message to youth members that discrimination is acceptable.
Under this policy, every gay Scout will eventually be kicked out -- it's only a question of when. Allowing a 16 year old to stay and complete his Eagle is a step forward, but why would he stay when the same policy will kick him out as soon as he turns 18? The message here is that LGBT people still aren't welcome in the BSA and have no future in Scouting.
We believe the proposed policy, though deeply flawed, is better than the current policy and therefore urge representatives to the national meeting in May to pass it. However, The Inclusive Scouting Network will continue working to ensure that the Boy Scouts of America will become a safe and affirming environment for all Scouts, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and religious belief. The only acceptable policy is a comprehensive national policy of non-discrimination that does not expire with age.
This is where you come in. We really need your help to continue working for change and providing Inclusive Scouting Awards for our allies within the BSA to wear and show their support for a more inclusive organization. Would you consider making a donation today to help us further our cause? Every dollar counts and is greatly appreciated as evidenced by the over 10,800 Inclusive Scouting Awards we have shipped in the past year alone!
Donate: http://www.inclusivescouting.net/about/donate/
Volunteer: http://www.inclusivescouting.net/volunteer/
Thank you for everything you do!
Chris, Mark, and Matt
Co-founders
The Inclusive Scouting Network
PO Box 2853, Malta, NY 12020
