Community Corner

Sound Off: Boy Scouts New Policy Toward Gay Members?

On Thursday, The Boy Scouts of America have voted to allow openly gay boys into the organization, ending what is said to be a century-long practice, according to reports. A ban on gay scout leaders was not considered during the vote and is still in effect. The new policy will not go into effect until Jan. 1, 2014.
"Today, following this review, the most comprehensive listening exercise in Scouting's history the approximate 1,400 voting members of the Boy Scouts of America's National Council approved a resolution to remove the restriction denying membership to youth on the basis of sexual orientation alone," the Boy Scouts of America said in a statement after the vote.

The group also reiterated that "any sexual conduct, whether heterosexual or homosexual, by youth of Scouting age is contrary to the virtues of Scouting."

The debate has been contentious, with conservative groups and faith-based organizations threatening to boycott if the the Scouts approved letting openly gay member into the organization. On the other side of the fence, liberal members and gay-rights groups are said to continue to push for more of an open door policy, allowing gay scout leaders to take part in scouting as well.

The Boy Scouts said it has no plans to continue on with the debate internally, saying it will not be "consumed by a single, divisive, and unresolved societal issue."

They believe that regardless of sexual orientation, their organization is good for the youth of America.

"While people have different opinions about this policy, we can all agree that kids are better off when they are in Scouting," the group said.

Patch wants to hear from you. Do you support this decision by The Boy Scouts of America to allow openly gay boys into its ranks? Tell us what you think in the comments below.


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