It’s Time for the Boy Scouts of America to Address Its Gender Inequality

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For three generations, my family has been a proud supporter of scouting. My grandfather joined the Boy Scouts of America in 1960, their 50th anniversary year. With severe asthma preventing him from engaging in sports, scouting provided him with opportunities to explore and develop a sense of purpose that lasted until his passing. One of his happiest moments was when he passed down a neckerchief slider from the 1964 Jamboree to my son, who wore it proudly to his first meeting during the BSA’s 100th anniversary.

He earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and when we went through his belongings after he passed in 2012, we discovered a treasure trove of scouting memories, all carefully labeled and preserved. Scouting was a significant part of his identity, and he took great pride in it.

Like my grandfather, my siblings and I were involved in scouting from a young age. I was a Girl Scout while my grandfather served as the Cub Master for my brothers’ pack. I cherish those memories of watching him lead songs, preside over ceremonies, and return home from camping trips covered in mud. Family participation was always encouraged, and I fondly recall the bonds formed during Blue and Gold dinners and popcorn sales.

So, when my son was old enough, we eagerly enrolled him in our local Cub Scout pack. Attending the first meeting felt like a homecoming. I watched with pride as my son earned rank after rank, wishing my grandfather could have joined us for the camping adventures that would have filled his heart with joy.

Despite my appreciation for the BSA and its contributions to my son’s life, I’ve started to see a troubling side to the organization. My daughter has also grown up in scouting, attending meetings, engaging in activities, and forming friendships with the boys in their uniforms. She has participated in Pinewood Derby races and helped with the annual Scouting for Food drive since she was four.

She loves scouting but is excluded from joining simply because she is a girl.

We enrolled her in Girl Scouts in kindergarten, and I wouldn’t change the memories she’s created with her troop. Her leaders have instilled confidence in her, and her friendships have been invaluable during her transition into the tween years. However, my daughter will never receive the same recognition her brother will when he achieves the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout.

Earning Eagle Scout is a remarkable accomplishment recognized widely in society. Many influential figures, from politicians to astronauts, have held this honor. When my son mentions his Eagle rank, doors open for him, and he is welcomed into an exclusive club. It’s a clear reflection of the patriarchal values still prevalent in our society.

It’s time to challenge this outdated notion. Some may argue that the Girl Scouts’ Gold Award holds equal merit, and while it’s a significant achievement, let’s be real: it doesn’t carry the same weight in our culture. When was the last time you heard news about a girl earning the Gold Award? Now compare that to the frequent headlines about boys achieving their Eagle rank. The reality is the Eagle rank holds greater prestige.

Only boys can achieve the Eagle rank. They can list it on their resumes, which elevates their recognition and employability. It’s time for the BSA to acknowledge this outdated practice.

Women today are breaking barriers in every field, yet scouting continues to segregate boys and girls. Why? Don’t claim that my daughter’s presence would somehow compromise your boys. This isn’t about sharing tents or bathrooms; it’s about granting girls the same opportunities for recognition and success. Girls enjoy archery, hiking, and campfire stories too. They deserve equal acknowledgment for their efforts.

It’s time for the BSA to allow my daughter to earn the Eagle rank and open doors for her, just as they do for boys. I’m ready to advocate for her and ensure she gets the recognition she deserves.

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In summary, the Boy Scouts of America must confront its gender inequality and create a more inclusive environment where girls can achieve the same honors as boys, paving the way for a fair future in scouting.