Gay activists celebrated on Thursday, as the ban on accepting gay members to the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has been lifted. The long tradition of scouting has reached another milestone, and yet some are still opposing the lifting of the ban. The BSA is now open for openly gay members to join.
Looking beyond the norms
The resolution was approved by the BSA’s National Council based on valid and proper grounds. In a statement given by the organization, the resolution is all about looking deeply into what scouting truly is about. The organization also pointed out that scouting is a program for the youth and that it does not care about any distinction between the sexual orientation of its members.
However, the policy still remains closed when it comes to gay scouting leaders. This matter is still far from being fully resolved.
Behind the triumph
This breakthrough would not have been possible if not for the effort and perseverance of gay rights supporters and advocates. These supporters came up with an idea of using a consulting firm to target more than 120 scouting councils where they believe support and votes can be garnered. The task at hand was not a simple process. But with patience and perseverance, the qualities valued by the scouting movement, they finally won what many thought would be a losing battle.
If there are supporters, there are also those who actively oppose the resolution. Protestors rallied outside the BSA holding signs expressing their disagreement with regard to accepting gay members in the scouting community. It was a close fight but gay rights supporters took home the victory.
Faith matters
According to the Boy Scouts of America membership data, about 70 % of Boy Scout units are being supported financially by faith-based organizations. More than 20% are supported by civic organizations while only 7% are being backed-up by educational institutions. The data clearly shows that the largest supporters of scouting in America are religious groups.
The Mormon Church, one of the largest supporters of scouting in America expressly favored the lifting of the ban. Some religious organizations were surprised about the Mormon Church’s stand regarding the matter. This is the same with the United Methodist Church that also issued a statement supporting the lifting of the ban. The Catholic Church on the other hand remained silent on the matter and gave no comment whatsoever.
The true meaning of scouting
An Eagle Scout who was raised by two lesbians stated that this is the time for change. Zach Wahls prides himself for achieving Eagle Scout status but also as a person who has grown up experiencing the love and support of gay parents. Wahls stated in a news conference last May 23 that excluding other people based on their sexual orientation and religious beliefs does not reflect the virtues of scouting.
BSA President Wayne Perry fully supported the lifting of the ban and even encouraged every delegate to support the resolution. The landmark resolution would take effect on January 1, 2014.
Photo Credit: Boy Scout Eagle Project
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