Since its beginning in 1920, the Boy Scouts of America has evolved dramatically. Continuous controversies have plagued the organization from the start. It has recently opened its ranks to girls and transgender boys, marking a significant transformation. This shift not only echoes changing social values but also positions Scouting America at the forefront of progressive youth organizations.
A Storied Beginning
In 1910, the Boy Scouts of America was founded, quickly becoming an iconic institution woven into the fabric of American life. This organization introduced terms like pinewood derbies and the Eagle Scout rank into the American lexicon, symbolizing tradition and achievement.
An Inspirational Encounter in London
The idea for the Boy Scouts of America sprang from a chance encounter in London. When American businessman William Boyce lost his way in the fog, a British scout assisted him without accepting a tip, citing his duty to do good deeds—a principle that inspired Boyce to start a similar organization in the U.S.
A Name Change for a New Era
Recently, the organization has taken a significant step by changing its name to Scouting America. This change reflects a renewed focus on inclusivity and the integration of girls throughout the organization, allowing them to pursue the esteemed Eagle Scout status.
Tackling Membership Discrimination
For decades, the organization grappled with controversies, notably around its membership policies. The turning point came in the 1990s, when the expulsion of James Dale, an Eagle Scout and assistant scoutmaster, for his sexual orientation sparked a legal battle that reached the U.S. Supreme Court.
A Shift Towards Inclusion
Despite a Supreme Court ruling that allowed the Boy Scouts to set its membership criteria, public and corporate sentiment began shifting towards inclusivity. By 2013, the organization opened its ranks to gay Scouts, and by 2015, it had lifted its ban on gay adult leaders, though church-sponsored units were allowed to maintain the exclusion for religious reasons.
Welcoming Transgender Scouts
In a landmark decision in 2017, Scouting America announced it would allow transgender children who identify as boys to join its boys-only programs. This inclusive move followed a controversy where a young transgender boy was expelled from his troop, highlighting the need for policy changes.
Opening Doors to Girls
In a historic overhaul, 2017 also marked the year the Boy Scouts of America invited girls to join their ranks. Starting as Cub Scouts and moving into the renamed Scouts BSA by 2019, this change paved the way for nearly 1,000 women to become Eagle Scouts in the inaugural female class of 2021.
Legal Challenges and Victories
The inclusion of girls led to a legal confrontation with the Girl Scouts of the USA, which sued over the shared use of the term “scouts.” The lawsuit was settled after a judge ruled that both organizations could continue to use the term, ensuring that Scouting America could maintain its new, inclusive identity.
Financial Struggles and Bankruptcy
In February 2020, Scouting America sought bankruptcy protection amidst financial difficulties exacerbated by approximately 275 lawsuits tied to allegations of sexual abuse within the organization. This move was crucial to manage compensation claims and secure the organization’s future.
A Plan for Compensation
By 2021, a federal judge had approved a $2.4 billion bankruptcy plan. This plan was a pivotal moment for Scouting America, providing a way to compensate over 80,000 men who claimed they were sexually abused during their time in scouting, marking a significant step towards accountability and healing.
An Ongoing Evolution
Today, Scouting America continues to adapt and evolve in response to societal changes. With over 6,000 girls having earned the Eagle Scout rank, the organization is making strides towards gender equality and inclusivity in its programs.
Looking Towards the Future
As Scouting America moves forward, it remains committed to upholding its core values while embracing the changes necessary to remain relevant and inclusive. This evolution reflects a broader shift in societal norms and the growing demand for organizations that foster inclusivity and equal opportunities for all youth.
