An Open Letter To The BSA

Since you reaffirmed your policy of exclusion last year, Eagle Scouts from around the country have been mailing their awards to the national council in protest.  This has clearly made an impact on the Chief Scout Executive and the National Council.  A change in this policy is long overdue.  It is time for the bigotry to stop.

I know former scouts that are gay.  They worked with me at one of the camps around the country.  There was never any wrongdoing by those staff members.  They served the camp and the campers well.  Because of them, and gay scouts and scouters around the country that serve in silence, boys are able to learn and to grow.  They come to know themselves as they are pushed physically and mentally at camps and on High Adventure trips.  These same opportunities should be extended to all boys.

How much would allowing these boys into the BSA really affect the organization?  These scouts and scouters will, no doubt, be as Trustworthy as any other scout.  They are just as Loyal to their family, friends, and communities as any other scout.  They would be loyal to you, as well, if you’d allow them to. 

They would be Helpful and “do a good turn daily” as they take that charge on as their personal motto. 

Being Friendly, Courteous, and Kind would be all too easy for them if only given the chance.  And they would be Obedient to their leaders, families, and the laws of this country.  While they follow the path to Eagle, they would stay Cheerful, thankful for the opportunity to walk the same path as icons like Neil Armstrong and Steven Spielberg.

They would learn to be Thrifty, Brave, and Clean as they grow to be better themselves.  And they would be Reverent to whatever faith they choose.

The time has come to welcome them into the Boy Scouts.  Their inclusion can strengthen you, as you strengthen them.  Their sexuality will not stop them from being good scouts.  They will do their duty, and obey the Scout Law.  They will help other people at all times and keep themselves physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. 

The time has come.  Next week, do what is right.