In a recent announcement, the Boy Scouts of America will be changing the name of their program for older youths from “Boy Scouts” to “Scouts BSA” as the organization prepares to accept female applicants.
The name change will take place in February 2019. The program name is changing, but the organization as a whole will keep its current name, Boy Scouts of America. Chief Scout Executive Michael Surbaugh said the following in a press release.
“As we enter a new era for our organization, it is important that all youth can see themselves in Scouting in every way possible. That is why it is important that the name for our Scouting program for older youth remain consistent with the single name approach used for the Cub Scouts.”
The program will separate boys and girls into two groups accordingly, though both groups will offer the same activities
The BSA also announced a new “Scout Me In” campaign, which puts an emphasis on the idea that both boys and girls are equally accepted into the Cub Scouts, their 10-and-under program. The Cub Scouts will keep its old name, as well.
This announcement follows the BSA’s announcement last October to begin accepting girls into their Cub Scouts program. A decision that would later prompt the Girl Scouts to speak out against the decision. Even so, more than 3,000 girls have enrolled to participate in Cub Scouts beginning in June 2018.
The Boy Scouts are a fantastic way to teach kids the basics about outdoor survival at a young age. It’s good to hear that girls will be offered the same resources.