Matt940

I was speaking of general trends, not specific individuals or families. No need to talk politics in Scouting, there's more than enough conversations to be had without resorting to small talk. In Scouting, no matter who you're with, there's plenty to talk about.

This decision was not taken lightly. The BSA took a long, deep dive into the American Zeitgeist and came up Woke. It's not surprising, that's where the corporations are along with the families with the disposable income AND high community involvement. And, sure, membership will decline at first. Many folks don't like the changes and are on the way out. It will take some time before Scouting 2.0 makes its way into the public consciousness. As somebody mentioned earlier, some families are reluctant to join because Scouting has a reputation for being "red." But it won't last. There seems to be a yearning among parents. especially the "blue" ones, for values-based outdoor youth development. IF they can work out the YPT stuff, I think this thing will take off again. The Movement will look different, more urban and coastal, but will ultimately thrive and once again occupy the place of esteem and importance it once held in society

Sure they do, but Scouting's morals very much come from popular opinion as they seek to represent the entire nation, not any individual. Please understand this wasn't personal. It was a bloodless decision based purely on survival, there was no political agenda. They sought, as they always have, to occupy the Nation's moral center, which has moved. I'm sensing that we're on completely opposite sides of the political spectrum but we're both committed Scouters so I'll bet there's a LOT more that unites us than divides us. I hope you continue your involvement and that I meet you out on the Trail. (And, with this smaller organization, I just might!)

I commend this young man for his maturity and hope that many others follow suit. Having spent 20 years in political opposition to the National Movement, I can tell you: They don't care what you think. They are moving forward with great purpose and intent and you can take it or you can leave it. A Scouting career of bitter intransigence hurts the Movement, and this guy gets that. I left 20 years ago as I felt Scouting was out of line with my values. Now I'm back for Scouting 2.0, with my kids, and couldn't be happier. I was away from Scouting long enough to know that the finest folks around are in the Movement. I don't want to lose any of you.. I hope all Scouters will find it in their hearts to embrace the ideals of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. But if you're not willing to put in the effort, please consider stepping aside for the good of the Movement and your own peace of mind. American morality has changed and Scouting along with it. Lead, follow, or get out of the way.