Founded in 1910, the Boy Scouts of America has been an iconic organization in the U.S., known for its pinewood derbies, Scout Oath, and the prestigious Eagle Scout status. The organization traces its roots back to American businessman William Boyce, who was inspired to start it after a scout in London helped him find his way through the fog without accepting any money for the good deed.
Over the years, the Boy Scouts of America has undergone significant changes to promote inclusivity and diversity. In 2013, the organization began allowing gay Scouts, and in 2015, it lifted the ban on gay adult leaders. In 2017, the Boy Scouts announced that transgender boys could enroll in their boys-only programs, marking a step towards greater acceptance.
One of the most significant changes came in 2017 when the Boy Scouts of America decided to welcome girls into the program. This move allowed girls to join as Cub Scouts in 2018 and later into the flagship Boy Scout program, renamed Scouts BSA, in 2019. The organization saw nearly 1,000 women achieve the prestigious Eagle Scout rank in 2021, with over 6,000 girls earning this honor to date.
However, the Boy Scouts of America faced challenges, including legal battles over its membership policies. In 1990, the organization expelled an Eagle Scout for being part of a gay and lesbian organization, leading to a Supreme Court ruling allowing the exclusion of homosexuals. The Boy Scouts also encountered backlash over its bankruptcy filing in 2020, with numerous sex abuse claims surfacing.
Despite these challenges, the Boy Scouts of America continues to evolve, now known as Scouting America, as it focuses on fostering a more inclusive environment for all members.
