Scouts rethink policy on gays

The Boy Scouts of America are considering dropping a controversial ban on gay members and leaders.

The Boy Scouts of America has been an organization dedicated to the betterment of today’s youth since 1910. “Scouting helps youth develop academic skills, self-confidence, ethics, leadership skills, and citizenship skills that influence their adult lives,” said the SBA website.

Currently both members and leaders are banned if they are gay. The proposal would allow the Boy Scouts of America groups to start letting each individual religious and civic group select their own policy regarding gay members and leaders.

The proposal comes after years of protests, petitions and loss of funding from some corporations. If these new changes take place, “the Boy Scouts would not, under any circumstances, dictate a position to units, members, or parents." according to BSA spokesman Deron Smith.

“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,” said Smith.

The BSA celebrated their 100th anniversary in 2010 and for that duration excluded both gays and atheists. They are not reconsidering the ban on atheists as “Duty to God” remains one of their basic tenets.

There will continue to be debate in the coming years as each group decides for themselves whether or not to lift the ban.

Story By Jordan Alexander