Fellow Guides,
Today, we were dismayed to read that Scouting America has signed a memorandum of understanding with the federal government in which it agreed, following months of pressure and scrutiny, to end initiatives aimed at opening its programs to people historically excluded from the scouting movement. This includes removing protections for transgender scouts.
In light of this decision by our siblings in scouting, we reaffirm Outdoor Service Guides’ commitment to actively creating and cultivating a safe, affirming, equitable, and inclusive environment. We welcome everyone to scout with us.
We find it troubling that the federal government has used its authority to influence a private organization’s internal policies. Scout groups must be free to define their own missions and membership policies in a way that reflects the law, their communities, and Scouting’s guiding principles.
The mission of Outdoor Service Guides is to foster an inclusive environment where individuals of all ages develop outdoor skills, connect across generations, and engage in community service. In the last year, we strengthened our policies around inclusivity and enshrined them in our bylaws. We will continue to advocate for the safety and well-being of all of our members.
We are a traditional scouting organization. Our youth and adult programs build real outdoor and leadership skills. We challenge each scout to do their best, and we celebrate their achievements. We do not lower the bar, we widen the path.
For those who believe that scouting is for everybody, Outdoor Service Guides continues to offer a home. We hope to see you around the campfire.
Yours in Inclusive Scouting and Guiding,
One thought on “Our Commitment to Inclusive Scouting”
This is wonderful to hear. I will be looking into ways to become involved or to donate to your organization.