Boy Scouts honor BLM movement with new diversity merit badge

Jun 18 2020, 6:11 pm

Any and all Boy Scouts of America who are looking to rank as an Eagle Scout will soon be required to obtain a merit badge dedicated to diversity and inclusion.

The badge will “build on components within existing merit badges, including the American Cultures and Citizenship in the Community merit badges, which require Scouts to learn about and engage with other groups and cultures to increase understanding and spur positive action.”

The badge came about as the organization reflected on their actions against racism.

In a letter addressed to the Scouting family, the National Executive Committee of the Boy Scouts of America emphasized that there is no place for racism in their organization.

“As Scouts, we must always stand for what is right and take action when the situation demands it,” they wrote.

The committee shared their stance on Black Lives Matter, calling it “not a political issue” and instead a “human rights issue and one we all have a duty to address.”

The organization has since committed to reviewing every element of their programs to ensure that diversity and inclusion are promoted, and will require diversity and inclusion training starting on July 1.

All property names, events, and insignia will also be reviewed “to ensure that symbols of oppression are not in use.”

The Boy Scouts of America will also “continue to listen more, learn more and do more to promote a culture in which every person feels that they belong, are respected, and are valued in Scouting, in their community, and across America.”

Alyssa TherrienAlyssa Therrien

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