Today, the Boy Scouts of America voted to allow OPENLY gay boys as members. However, bad news, the ban on LGBT Scout leaders in still in place. (booo!!)
It was reported that local Scout leaders at the annual meeting in Texas voted in favor of this change by more then 60%. I think the fact the vote that led to this change happened in Texas is pretty awesome. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against Texas. It's just that in equality polls, Texas is usually one of the states that seems furthest from legalizing same-sex marriage.
On top of support from religious and corporate groups as well as individuals and Scout families, GLAAD was a big supporter of this movement within The Boy Scouts of America. This is the statement they made after the decision was announced.
"Today's vote is a significant victory for gay youth across the nation
and a clear indication that the Boy Scouts' ban on gay adult leaders
will also inevitably end," said GLAAD spokesperson Rich Ferraro. "The
Boy Scouts of America heard from religious leaders, corporate sponsors
and so many Scouting families who want an end to discrimination against
gay people, and GLAAD will continue this work with those committed to
equality in Scouting until gay parents and adults are able to
participate."
Many conservative groups are now upset and disappointed with the Boy Scouts, believing this change will cause the organization to lose many members. I don't agree. I think that they might lose some due to conservative and bigoted families, but many will stay and even more will join knowing they can be themselves openly and without shame. This change will actually help the Boy Scouts on their mission to turn young boys into good men because they will be helping them learn acceptance and that there is nothing wrong, or unmanly, with being gay.
The fact that the ban on LGBT Scout leaders is still in place dampens this news a bit. However, I'm confident this notable victory within the organization, as well as all the support in favor of this change, will help get that ban lifted.
To read the article on this victory from NPR's website visit the link posted below.
XOXO
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2013/05/23/186344972/boy-scouts-vote-to-admit-openly-gay-members
