Boy Scouts of America: Black Lives Matter
On my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight. - BOY SCOUT OATH
To help combat social and racial injustices in this country, Boy Scouts of America has made a statement that they stand with the Black community because "Black Lives Matter".
The statement from the organization's National Executive Committee was released on the Boy Scouts' Scouting Wire website, where they went on to say:
"There is no place for racism – not in Scouting and not in our communities. Racism will not be tolerated." - Boy Scouts of America
As part of their brave stance against social and racial injustices, the organization announced that it has added a Diversity and Inclusion Merit Badge, which every Eagle Scout candidate must earn prior to receiving the rank of Eagle Scout.
BSA went on to say that they condemn the murder of Black people and vow to fight against these injustices.
We condemn the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and all those who are not named but are equally important. We hear the anguish, feel the heartbreak, and join the country’s resolve to do better. - BSA
In what appears to be an unpopular opinion among some facets of our society, the Boy Scouts say that standing up for Black lives requires bravery, one of the twelve points of Scouting Law.
Boys Scouts of America has been ahead of the race inclusion situation for several years, as they banned the use of the Confederate flag almost 30 years ago. They are now reviewing "property names, events, and insignia" to verify that no symbols of oppression remain within their organization.
BSA also announced that beginning July 1, all employees must undergo a diversity and inclusion training program, which will be required of volunteers as well (at a future date).