Boy Scouts of America changing name to 'Scouting America' to promote inclusivity

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- To promote inclusivity, the Boy Scouts of America is changing its name.

Next year, the organization will be called "Scouting America."

The change comes after abuse and misconduct allegations within the scouts in recent years.

This is the first time the organization has changed its name in 114 years of existence.

"Nationally, almost 20% of our members today are female; we wanted to make sure that they were not a part of a program that had 'boy' in the name," said Andrew Hardin, scout executive, Three Harbors Council, Boy Scouts of America.

It’s a historic rebrand for the Boy Scouts of America, an organization known for instilling skills in young people across the nation.

"Through scouting you learn life skills, you learn leadership, you learn character education," said Hardin.

Hardin went on to say since 2018, girls have been allowed to be a part of the organization.

"Ultimately, the goal is to reflect that our program serves all youth - boys, girls, all youth in our community are welcomed," said Hardin.

The scouts' name change is something mental health experts said has the power to go beyond gender roles.

"Maybe I don’t fit a gender role, perhaps I am gay or transgender, and I may not fit into well, but now it's inclusive," said Dr. Lia Knox, with Knox Behavioral Health Solutions.

Knox went on to say doing away with a gender label allows for a stronger community to be built.

"There is a right for everyone to speak, there is a voice for everyone, and people come and go as they please, and it's open to all," said Knox.

In recent years, Boys Scouts of America has faced a storm of controversy, including widespread allegations of sexual abuse and misconduct.

Hardin hopes this new name reflects the new environment within the scouts.

"We are going forward in a place of strength, we are very proud for the safety measures that are placed in scouting today," said Hardin.

In 2023, roughly 25,000 young people were registered as scouts in the state of Wisconsin -- this name change may help that number grow.