Concerns had been raised over the scout organization’s practices and ideological changes in recent years.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced the Pentagon’s collaboration with Scouting America, formerly the Boy Scouts of America, would continue for the present. He had considered putting an end to all federal support for Scouting America until the organization pledged to adjust its practices.
Secretary Hegseth said that since 2012, “the Boy Scouts lost their way, and a once-great organization became gravely wounded. [DEI] crept in, the name was changed to ‘Scouting America,’ girls were accepted [and] the focus on God as the ruler of the universe was watered down to include openness to humanism and Earth-centered pagan religions.”
Scouting America agreed to end its Citizenship in Society merit badge, which was previously mandatory for scouts who wished to achieve the Life Scout rank, which precedes the Eagle Scout rank. They have agreed to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion policies across the organization, and will apply a “frontiersman ethos.“
The organization will also enhance cooperation with military families by waiving registration fees and will introduce a new merit badge focused on military service. Secretary Hegseth stated that the Pentagon will “vigorously review” the changes Scouting America has made.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Secretary Hegseth as he assesses the Pentagon’s relationship with Scouting America.
- For Pentagon officials involved in the review process of Scouting America’s practices and policies.
Sources: CBS News, Department of Defense
