Key Highlights
Pentagon officials are drawing a hard line on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in Scouting America. On February 26, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced the Pentagon would conditionally continue to provide support to Scouting America following its commitment to pull all DEI initiatives from its programs.
Scouting’s Shift
Scouting America, formerly known as Boy Scouts of America, has taken a significant step in recent years. In 2018 and 2019, it began permitting girls to join both Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. The organization rebranded to its current name in 2024, marking a new chapter focused on aligning with the Trump administration’s executive order.
Executive Order Compliance
Following discussions with Department of Defense officials, Scouting America signed a memorandum of understanding stating that it would comply with Executive Order 14173. This order aimed to bar DEI efforts in the public and private sectors. As a result, DEI-focused language has been removed from programs and publications.
The organization also eliminated the “citizenship in society” merit badge, which required Scouts to “realize the benefits of diversity, equity, inclusion, and ethical leadership.” In its place, a new military service merit badge will be introduced. This change reflects the broader shift within Scouting America towards traditional values.
Leadership’s Stance
In response to Pentagon concerns, Scouting America President and CEO Roger Krone emphasized the organization’s commitment to military families. He stated in a USA TODAY interview on February 27 that throughout the process, Scouting America “held firm on the core commitments” that define it.
Krone noted, “Girls have been an integral part of Scouting since the 1960s and have served as leaders and program developers for decades. That commitment is unwavering.” Despite this, he acknowledged the need to comply with executive order mandates.
Historic Decision
Hegseth’s decision came after months of deliberation. He initially considered ending all support for Scouting America but decided to meet with leadership first. In a video statement, Hegseth said, “I was very seriously considering ending our support of Scouting altogether.” However, discussions with officials led to key reforms that ensured continued Pentagon backing.
“That means that the application, any application, will have only two sex designations, male and female, and the application must match the applicant’s birth certificate,” Hegseth explained.
This policy change aligns with broader efforts within the Department of Defense to maintain traditional values amidst evolving societal norms.
You might think this is new, but it’s been coming for a while. The Pentagon has long been wary of DEI initiatives that they perceive as undermining military values. While Scouting America’s shift to permit girls was seen by some as progressive, the removal of DEI programs aligns with a broader push for traditionalist policies.
So, what does this mean for future scouting and military partnerships?
It signals a clear direction from Pentagon leadership: traditional values are prioritized over progressive social initiatives. As we move forward, expect to see more organizations reevaluating their DEI practices in light of similar mandates.
