Two steps forward, one step back

Hi All, It's been an interesting week! First, a step in the right direction. BSA Chief Scout Executive Mike Surbaugh issued a statement on July 27, saying "I want to extend my sincere apologies to those in our Scouting family who were offended." Unfortunately, Mr. Surbaugh's apology left much to be desired. First, the statement, as some have argued, is a non-apology. As you know, simply saying "I'm sorry you were offended" does not take any responsibility for what took place. Second, Mr. Surbaugh leaned on BSA's non-partisanship rather than outlining the myriad ways in which President Trump's actions and words did not live up to the values of Scouting. Read the full statement here: http://bit.ly/2tH90O8 Next, President Trump was interviewed by The Wall Street Journal on Tuesday, making the dubious claim: “I got a call from the head of the Boy Scouts saying it was the greatest speech that was ever made to them, and they were very thankful.” On Wednesday, reporting by the Washington Post called President Trump's statement into question. Asked for confirmation, BSA representatives said they are unaware of any such conversation taking place. Whatever the case, it is clear that President Trump continues to use the BSA as a political tool for his personal gain. Read more here: http://wapo.st/2vqgatR It is my belief that the BSA cannot allow this to continue. They must take courageous moral action and denounce President Trump's damaging words and actions, both at the Jamboree and since. I hope you will join me in contacting national and local BSA representatives as well as sponsors and media. Twenty letters went out just this afternoon! Download the letter here: http://bit.ly/2h5X2Mp Best, Davis