Dear Editor:
The Boy Scouts of America recently announced girls can join the Cub Scout program and a new Boy Scout program to become an Eagle Scout. The reason for this change is simple - parents and girls want it. Parents see what Scouts offer boys and want the same for girls.
I wish my two grown daughters had this opportunity. Many girls desire the outdoor and leadership experiences that BSA offers. Some find change hard, but there are many misconceptions about these changes.
In 2018, existing Cub packs may establish a new girl's pack or a pack with dens for both girls and boys, or they can remain an all-boy pack. Establishing a girl's pack is up to the pack's leaders and chartering organization. New charters may establish packs under the same criteria. Details will be released next year on how girls can earn the Eagle Scout rank that is projected to begin in 2019. There will be no change to the curriculum used by the boys or the girls. Having girls in scouting is not new. Sisters of Cub Scouts have participated in activities for years. Since 1971, girls have participated in BSA coed programs, Exploring and Venturing, and a new pilot coed program, Invention Scouts, which prepare them to be leaders. In delivering expanded programs for young women, BSA will evaluate any changes to ensure the safety of all youth. This decision is in line with its mission to prepare young people to make ethical, moral choices by instilling the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Not enough people appreciate the Scouts' profound effect on society. More than 2 million young men and women are in BSA. More than 2 million men have achieved the Eagle Scout rank. One in 1,000 Eagle Scouts have received the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award. This includes Clyde Lear, retired chairman/CEO of Learfield Communications; Charles Kruse, former Missouri Farm Bureau president; and former Gov. Jay Nixon and Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder. Too many in our society attack institutions, individuals and customs that most were taught to respect. They are quick to point out blemishes. No matter how superficial the blemishes are, they never appreciate the beauty and strength that lies underneath. BSA builds character and responsible adults. The Boy Scouts of America is the greatest nonsectarian organization for young men and women. It's time to get behind the Boy Scouts.
Max Cook is the president of the Boys Scouts of America Great Rivers Council Board of Directors