The Boy Scouts of America, after 114 years of history, has decided to change its name to Scouting America. This change comes as the organization is emerging from bankruptcy due to a wave of sexual abuse claims and is looking to focus on inclusivity. Over the years, the organization has undergone significant changes, such as allowing gay youth in 2013, accepting gay adult leaders in 2015, and permitting girls to join as Cub Scouts in 2018 and as part of the flagship Scouts BSA program in 2019.
The decision to include girls in the organization has been met with mixed reactions, with some concerned about maintaining traditions while others embraced the change. Today, there are nearly 1,000 young women who have achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, including Selby Chipman. Chipman, a college student and assistant scoutmaster, believes that the name change to Scouting America will attract even more girls to join the organization and realize that they can participate in the scouting programs.
The acceptance of girls in the Boy Scouts organization has led to strained relationships with the Girl Scouts of the USA, who initially sued the organization. However, both groups are now allowed to use terms like “scouts” and “scouting” freely. Despite the challenges faced by the organization, the Boy Scouts have continued to adapt and offer a wide range of activities for youths, including high adventures, merit badges in various fields, and opportunities for leadership development.
The Boy Scouts organization has experienced a decline in membership in recent years, with the pandemic further impacting participation. However, they are striving to attract more youths by offering a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests. The organization’s bankruptcy reorganization plan has allowed them to continue operating while compensating individuals who were sexually abused as children while participating in scouting.
As the organization looks towards the future, leaders like Angelique Minett, the first woman chairperson of Scouts BSA, are excited about the potential for scouting to teach youth important life skills and values. The youth council from across the United States plays a vital role in shaping the future of the organization by raising issues that are important to them, such as sustainability and leadership. The official name change to Scouting America is set to take effect on February 8, 2025, during the organization’s 115th birthday, but individuals are encouraged to begin using the new name immediately to convey a message of inclusivity and welcome to all.