Scouting America Faces Scrutiny Over Diversity Rollback

One of Scouting America’s major events has faced criticism for removing dedicated spaces for gay youth, women, and scouts of color. This change followed pressure from the Pentagon urging the organization to reduce its diversity efforts.

The National Jamboree, concluding Friday, mirrors broader shifts within Scouting America. These modifications emerged after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth targeted “woke” policies. Some scouts withdrew from the event in West Virginia due to the organization abandoning prior inclusion initiatives. Hegseth warned of terminating the Pentagon’s longstanding partnership with Scouting America unless they focused less on diversity.

The organization, once known as Boy Scouts of America, rebranded in 2024 to highlight inclusivity and the increasing number of girls joining the ranks. Assistant scoutmaster Samuel J. Aronson, involved in organizing inclusive events, stated, “Scouting fundamentally is a safe place for young people to have fun.” He believes the removal of these spaces compromises both safety and enjoyment for thousands of young people.

This year, around 15,000 scouts, leaders, and volunteers attended the 10-day National Jamboree in West Virginia. Activities included mountain biking, kayaking, leadership programs, and educational sessions. A spokesperson for Scouting America affirmed their commitment to welcoming all youth but did not directly address changes to the Jamboree.

“They basically have their thumb on the organization, threatening them under constant pressure.” – James Dale

The Pentagon signed an agreement with Scouting America in February, but both parties differ on the details. A gay rights activist, James Dale, obtained the agreement from the Defense Department, emphasizing the public importance of clarity. Dale, expelled from the Boy Scouts in the 1990s for being gay, equated the Pentagon’s tactics to bullying.

The agreement outlines Pentagon monitoring methods, including regular meetings between both organizations. Dale, after obtaining the document, expressed concern over the military’s influence.

Scouting America and the military maintain close ties; the military offers logistical support for the jamboree, and some scout troops operate on or near bases. A Pentagon spokesperson referred to earlier comments by Hegseth, who promised a “vigorous review” of Scouting America’s changes. He stated military support would end if compliance was not achieved by late August.

John Andrew Segebarth, a 21-year-old Eagle Scout, expressed his disappointment with the removal of inclusive spaces. Segebarth, part of the scouts since first grade, was eager to support the LGBTQ+ and Allied Scouts area at the Jamboree. He noted that recent national events have included community spaces for diverse groups, including girls and persons with disabilities.

“Scouting’s kind of walking back on its values that they told me they believed in.” – John Andrew Segebarth

Segebarth described the changes as a stark departure from the values he was taught. Alongside Aronson, he decided against attending the jamboree this year.

Layla Grace, a 21-year-old assistant scoutmaster, shared a similar sentiment. Having found a sense of community in past events, Grace planned to contribute to the LGBTQ+ and Allied Scouts space. Despite reconsidering her attendance, she chose to support attendees, volunteering in areas addressing mental health, food security, and education.

Grace, expressing support through visible symbols, aimed to fill the void left by canceled inclusive areas. “I am wearing so many rainbows on me,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to creating a sense of community.

Associated Press reporter Ben Finley contributed to this report.