What's happened
After over a century, the Boy Scouts of America is rebranding as Scouting America to be more inclusive, following a flood of sexual abuse claims and bankruptcy. The name change, effective February 2025, aims to welcome all children and teens into the organization's programs.
Why it matters
The rebranding of the Boy Scouts of America to Scouting America signifies a shift towards inclusivity and a response to widespread sexual abuse allegations. The move aims to make the organization more welcoming to all youth, reflecting changing societal norms and values.
What the papers say
The New York Times reports that the name change to Scouting America is part of a wider rebranding effort to appeal to girls and address critiques of inclusivity. The Independent highlights the organization's commitment to inclusivity and teaching young people to be prepared for life.
How we got here
Founded in 1910, the Boy Scouts of America has undergone significant changes over the years, including allowing girls to join its programs and admitting gay youth. The decision to rebrand as Scouting America comes amidst a history of turmoil, legal battles, and efforts to adapt to evolving social norms.
Common question
More on these topics
-
The Boy Scouts of America is the largest scouting organization and one of the largest youth organizations in the United States, with about 2.3 million youth participants and about one million adult volunteers.
-
The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
-
The Scout movement, also known as Scouting or the Scouts, is a voluntary non-political educational movement for young people. Although it requires an oath of allegiance to a nation's political leaders and, in some countries, to a God, it otherwise allows