Monday, October 22, 2012

Editorial: Sign the petition asking Denver Area Council of Boy Scouts of America to reject anti-gay policies

By Tammie Weitzman

We, the Scouts and community members of Thornton, Broomfield, Westminster Colorado urge the Denver Area Council to reject the Boy Scouts of America's anti-gay policy.

I find it actually is the opposite of what scouts claims to be for, teaching boys to respect differences amongst all people. Things like being fair, to do your duty to God and your country, to help other people and take care of out community. Everyone also interprets God in their own way, Scouts can earn their religious badge for Buddism, Muslimism as well as Christianity.

Among service organizations, the Boy Scouts are increasingly isolating themselves with their discriminatory policy. Organizations including the Girl Scouts, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, as well as the 4H Club all welcome gay kids as well as adult leaders. Boy Scouts in other countries do not have an anti-gay policy, I believe it is time to end this practic here in America

We love the Boy Scouts, but we can’t support this policy. That's why we urge you to speak out against the ban on gay Scouts and leaders and adopt an inclusive policy like other troops, packs, councils, and lodges across the country have done -- so the Boy Scouts can maintain its relevancy, improve recruitment, and truly live by the principles it teaches its members.

Both President Barack Obama and former governor Mitt Romney have joined Scouts for Equality to help end the anti-gay policy in Boy Scouts.

100 years is too long for this antiquated rule.

Thank you for your time and consideration in this important manner.

Click here to sign the petition.

NOTE: We encourage everyone to join this campaign, but if you're a current or former Scout or leader, please say so in the "Why People Are Signing" section. Thanks!