Gay Boy Scouts of America?

[peacetraveler22]

A few weeks ago I went fishing with my family in a small country town close to DC. The purpose was not to catch dinner, but to offer a day of fun for my young nephew. At the small pond we visited there were a lot of boy scouts on a day excursion. I'm sure most of you are familiar with this organization, which started in 1910. The Boys Scouts of America provides programs for young boys that help develop personal character, community involvement and physical activity through outdoor events such as camping and fishing. I'm not sure if there is a similar organization in Russia?

More recently the organization is in the news because of its prohibition on gay scouts and leaders. Just today over 1,400 local leaders convened for a two day meeting where they will vote on whether to allow openly gay boys in the scouting movement. Of course, there also is constant debate on whether the organization should permit openly gay men to be Scout Leaders. However, this is not on the ballot at the current meeting.


©Associated Press

Anyone who reads me on a regular basis can certainly guess my opinion on the issue. What do you think? Is it okay to have openly gay boy scouts and leaders? The organization is based in Irving, Texas, probably the most right-winged and conservative State in America. I doubt the ban will be lifted, but it's good food for thought.

Comments

[peacetraveler22.livejournal.com]

I agree, they should not show or make a big deal about their orientation. However, it's usually not the children that raise the issue but rather their parents. They suspect a fellow scout is gay and become alarmed, causing an uproar. It's good you have supportive friends.