More Battles for the Boy Scouts

In a recent ruling, the Democratic-controlled California State Assembly rejected a resolution to honor the Boy Scouts on their 85^th anniversary. The resolution, introduced by Robert Pacheco, received 37 votes in favor of the Boy Scouts; it needed 41 votes to pass the 80-member Assembly. The goal of the resolution, in Pacheco own words, was "to recognize the Boy Scouts’ significant contributions to our communities and the lives of millions of boys during the past 85 years. "

Ever since it was granted a federal charter on June 15, 1916, the Boy Scouts have provided young boys with excellent role models of upstanding men in their communities, instilling principles of leadership, citizenship, and service.

According to Pacheco, "The Boy Scouts is a well-respected organization and deserves our recognition for its long standing presence in our community. Democrats sent a message to millions of our youth that the legislature condemns the positive influence the Boy Scouts have made to our society. Their failure to support the values learned in scouting is disheartening and a slap in the face to Boy Scouts everywhere."

Undoubtedly, the greatest source of rejection of the Boy Scouts has stemmed from their stand against homosexuals participating as Boy Scout Troop Leaders. As a private organization, the Boy Scouts are allowed to set moral standards for their leadership. And, according to their rules of membership, the homosexual lifestyle is simply unethical to the principles by which the Boy Scouts are taught to live.

Although their stand for morality has been costly, it has also created a new level of support and appreciation by similar community organizations and ministries who share the conviction of principle established by the Boy Scouts of America.

(Julie Foster, "California Politicians Reject Boy Scouts," WorldNetDaily.com, July 25, 2001)

Back to Religious Liberty...An American Tradition

Back to American Voice Institute of Public Policy Home Page