As an Eagle Scout, the current Adult Committee Chair for a Scouting BSA troop, and a parent of two active scouts, as well as one more who earned Eagle Scout and has aged out of the program, I am profoundly disturbed by recent modifications to the Scouting America program:

1. Citizenship in Society merit badge, which was previously required to earn Eagle Scout, has been discontinued
2. Scouting America's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee was dissolved.

The changes, made to comply with Executive Order 14173 and protect Scouting America's relationship with the U.S. Military, strike at the very heart of the values that the organization stands for. These alterations, seen by many of us involved, contradict the Scout Oath, Law, and Purpose, and pose a threat to the core integrity and trustworthiness of Scouting America.

In the formal announcement from Scouting America regarding these changes, Roger A. Krone, Chief Scouting Executive, President & CEO assured us that "Our emphasis on duty to God, duty to country, and service to others is strengthened by this partnership. Scouting’s values have not changed, and they will not change." Yet, these recent actions show quite the opposite.

The Scout Oath calls us to do our duty to God and country and to help other people at all times. The Scout Law asks us to be trustworthy, loyal, brave, and reverent. These are not abstract ideals—they are meant to guide our actions, as well as the actions of Scouting America leaders. The Citizenship in Society Merit Badge prompted us to explicitly, and with high priority, teach Scouts to respect and understand others, practice empathy and kindness, and engage thoughtfully with different perspectives. These principles are foundational to our country, reflected in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. They are central to nearly every, if not every faith tradition recognized by Scouting America. 

Many Scout members, leaders, parents, and alumni are concerned—not only for what has been changed now but also for the uncertainty of future decisions. If changes can be made that compromise our ethical standards today, what assurance do we have that further changes will not erode them further?

It's crucial to understand the broader impact of these shifts. Scouting is a movement that has long stood as a beacon of moral leadership and community service. The changes risk diminishing that light.

For the well-being and future trust of Scouting America, we implore the leadership to reverse the recent modifications prompted by Executive Order 14173 and to maintain steadfast adherence to the values that define us. Let us ensure that any changes align with the core principles that have made Scouting America a revered institution, instilling confidence and leadership in our youth.

Sign this petition to urge Scouting America to prioritize integrity and transparency, reinforcing the pillars of duty to God, country, and community, now and always. Please add your support by signing this petition and help preserve the principled legacy of Scouting America for future generations.