My Journey and the New BSA Policy
As an Eagle Scout, I have spent countless hours immersed in the Scouting program, instilling its values in my sons and daughters. The Scouting organization has always played a significant role in shaping my life and worldview. This article explores my personal journey and the recent changes within the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), which I believe will create more inclusive opportunities for all Scouts, despite some initial resistance.
My Commitment to Scouting Values
My journey began in 1994 when I spent approximately 2 hours being interviewed by 6 Scouters for my Eagle Board of Review. During this interview, one of the questions that sparked a long discussion was about how I would raise my children in the values of Scouting and give them the option to continue the program if they chose to.
I expressed my determination and commitment to involve my children in Scouting, with a particular focus on my daughters. I had envisioned a future where they could have the same opportunities to learn and grow from the experiences the program offers. This was a time when the idea of girls participating in Scouting was not as prevalent, and I believed that Scouting offered a unique and valuable experience for boys.
Encouraging Participation in Cub Scouts
When my oldest child turned 6, I quickly found a local Cub Scout Pack and enrolled both my sons to participate. Since then, I have actively supported their various activities. My oldest daughter turned 6, and I attempted to find a Girl Scout Troop in the area, but received no responses.
When my daughter asked if her friends participated in the Cub Scout activities, she found that several of her friends were involved. Intrigued, I invited her to attend one of the Cub Scout meetings. She enjoyed it, and suggested that I sign her up as well. After several years of trying, I received a response from a new Girl Scout Troop in the area.
Initial Challenges and Observations
When my daughter started attending the Girl Scout troop meetings, I never felt particularly welcome. She also didn’t seem to be enjoying it much. The leaders' daughters seemed to run every aspect of the troop, often overruling the other girls.
BSA's 2019 Policy Change
A significant turning point came when BSA announced changes to its policy. I was thrilled, and my daughter was even more excited. She would finally be able to participate in all the activities her older brother was doing and receive recognition for her efforts.
The New Policy Explained
Some readers have expressed concerns about the new BSA policy, believing it will change the nature of the scouting experience for boys. However, the new policy aims to maintain the unique and specific environment that I and many others value. BSA will continue to have both Boy Scouts BSA Troops and Girl Scouts BSA Troops, ensuring that both genders are separated and can continue to have the same rich, desirable experiences they have come to expect.
The separation of genders for the foreseeable future is intended to preserve the distinct scouting environments for each group. Boys will continue to be able to be "guys," engaging in activities that are tailored to their interests and experiences. The changes will not detract from the valuable experiences offered to any gender. In fact, the new policy aims to enhance the opportunities available to all Scouts, regardless of gender.
Conclusion
The changes at BSA are designed to provide more inclusive opportunities for all Scouts while maintaining the unique and valuable aspects of the traditional scouting experience. As an Eagle Scout, I am confident in the future of Scouting and look forward to seeing how these changes will foster growth and development for all members of the scouting community.
I encourage all parents and Scouts to embrace this new policy change, as it will undoubtedly bring more girls into the scouting community and provide them with the same rewarding experiences that boys have enjoyed for many years.