Scouting America announced a series of policy changes in response to guidance from the Pentagon, including adjustments to its stance on transgender youth, which could impact its support from the U.S. military. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth disclosed these changes on Friday and indicated that the organization must align its practices with military values to maintain that support.
Among the proposed changes are the discontinuation of the Citizenship in Society merit badge and the introduction of a new Military Service merit badge. These adjustments reflect suggestions made by Scouting America to the Department of Justice earlier this year. Hegseth criticized the organization’s recent rebranding efforts and described them as part of a detrimental shift toward what he termed “woke culture.” He expressed concern that the organization had lost its traditional values and became weakened due to the emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
In a video announcement, Hegseth stated that he had contemplated withdrawing all support for Scouting America, asserting that the organization must revert to its original mission of molding young boys into exemplary men. He emphasized the need for fundamental reforms and expressed hope that the Scouts would readdress their core principles.
In response, Scouting America reaffirmed its commitment to military families and announced plans to waive registration fees for these families, alongside the launch of the new military-focused merit badge. The organization is determined to uphold its foundational values of leadership, character, duty to God, country, and service, while also remaining inclusive for over 200,000 girls active in its programs.
Historically, Scouting America, formerly known as the Boy Scouts of America, has undergone significant transformations over the years, including allowing gay youth in 2013, gay adult leaders in 2015, and transgender members since 2017. It began admitting girls into its Cub Scouts in 2018 and expanded opportunities for girls in its core programs by 2019. By May 2024, more than 6,000 girls had achieved the prestigious Eagle Scout rank.
The Pentagon previously indicated it would reassess its ties to the organization, criticizing its diversity initiatives as contrary to the current administration’s values. Both entities have expressed a desire to continue their partnership, contingent upon Scouting America’s swift implementation of core reforms emphasizing traditional values.
The military’s connection to Scouting America dates back to 1937, with the military providing support for the National Boy Scout Jamboree and sponsoring troops on military bases. However, tensions between Scouting America and the Pentagon have escalated, especially following reports that the Pentagon might cut support for scouting programs on military installations.
As Scouting America embarks on these changes, it is clear the organization is striving to navigate its evolving identity while maintaining its historical ties to the military and balancing inclusivity with the expectations of its benefactors. This attempt to work collaboratively with the Pentagon marks a critical step in redefining its mission and ensuring continued support in a competitive youth development landscape.