Boy Scouts of America officially changes name to be more ‘inclusive’

After nearly a year of anticipation, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) officially changed its name to Scouting America on its 115th anniversary. The organization stated that the rebranding was a pivotal moment in its journey to meet the evolving needs of young people.

The decision to change the name came after a policy change in 2018 that allowed girls to join the program. This change followed previous decisions to allow gay youth in 2013 and end a ban on gay adult leaders in 2015. Despite some backlash, there was a small spike in membership after the announcement in May, with over 15,000 scouts joining and total membership exceeding 1 million.

Scouting America, as the nation’s foremost youth program, focuses on character development, leadership, fun, and outdoor exploration. The organization emphasized that its mission of preparing young people to make ethical and moral choices remains unchanged, instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.

While the name has changed, the commitment to providing young people with essential values, skills, and experiences has not wavered. Scouting America aims to provide a safe and supportive environment where youth can develop into tomorrow’s leaders. The organization highlighted the importance of teaching youth how to set goals and achieve them with determination, emphasizing personal growth through adventures like camping trips and trail hikes.

The rebranding comes after a challenging period for the organization, including a significant decline in membership during the COVID-19 pandemic and a $2.46 billion settlement involving allegations of sexual abuse by BSA officials and volunteers. By filing for bankruptcy, the organization was able to continue operating and reaffirm its commitment to providing a safe environment for young people.

As Scouting America looks to the future, it remains dedicated to instilling timeless values in generations of Americans and helping youth thrive in a rapidly changing world. The organization’s website has been updated with the new name, reflecting its commitment to providing meaningful life skills, creating lifelong memories, and nurturing future leaders.