A New Era for Inclusivity

it will be rebranding as "Scouting America" effective February 8, 2025. This move signifies a commitment to inclusivity and aims to attract a wider range of youth to its programs.

The organization, headquartered in Irving, Texas, has been struggling with declining membership numbers in recent years. In 2018, it had just over one million youth members, a stark contrast to the record high of five million in 1972. This decline has been attributed to various factors, including changing societal norms and the rise of alternative youth activities.

In an effort to reverse this trend, the Boy Scouts has been taking steps towards inclusivity. In 2013, it began allowing gay youth to join, and in 2015, it lifted the ban on gay adult leaders. In 2017, it announced that it would accept girls into the Cub Scouts program, and in 2019, it extended this inclusion to the flagship Boy Scout program, which was renamed Scouts BSA.

The name change to Scouting America reflects this commitment to inclusivity. By removing the word "boy" from its name, the organization hopes to send a clear message that it welcomes all young people, regardless of gender identity.

However, the rebranding has not been without its critics. Some, including Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, have expressed concern that the change will alienate supporters who believe it is unnecessary. Others have questioned whether the new name is sufficiently distinct from the Girl Scouts of the USA, a separate organization that has clashed with the Boy Scouts over its recruitment of girls.

Despite these concerns, the Boy Scouts leadership believes that the name change is essential for the organization's future. "In the next 100 years, we want any youth in America to feel very, very welcome to come into our programs," said Roger Krone, president and CEO of the organization.

The rebranding of the Boy Scouts to Scouting America marks a significant shift for the organization. It remains to be seen whether this change will be successful in attracting new members and revitalizing the organization, but it is a clear indication of its commitment to inclusivity and its desire to remain relevant in the 21st century.