Scouting America, previously known as the Boy Scouts of America, has announced its decision to change its name to emphasize inclusivity, with the new name set to take effect in February 2025. The move is aimed at ensuring that all youth, irrespective of gender, feel welcome within the organization.
Roger A. Krone, the organization's president and CEO, described the name change as a natural evolution that reflects the diverse composition of American youth. The rebranding, coinciding with the organization's 115th anniversary, signifies a significant step in acknowledging the contributions of girls and young women, who now constitute nearly 20% of the organization's membership.
Despite the name change, the organization's core mission remains unchanged, focusing on preparing young people for life through ethical and moral choices, guided by the Scout Oath and Law. Since the inclusion of girls in 2018 and the expansion of the program to older girls in 2019, over 6,000 girls and young women have earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout.
Selby Chipman, an assistant Scoutmaster and one of the first female Eagle Scouts, highlighted the leadership skills gained through the program and expressed hope that more girls and young women would benefit from it as she has.
However, the Boy Scouts of America has faced controversy in recent years, including allegations of sexual abuse. In 2020, the organization filed for bankruptcy, and last year it began compensating victims through a court-established trust, with an expected payout of $2.4 billion to over 82,000 survivors.