Changes Ahead for Scouting America
Scouting America, the newly named organization previously identified as the Boy Scouts of America, is set to undergo some significant changes, as announced by Army Secretary Pete Hegseth. This shift comes amid increasing pressure from the U.S. Department of the Army, which has hinted at cutting support.
In a recent video, Hegseth expressed serious concerns about the organization’s current direction, labeling it as adopting a “radical, woke ideology.” However, he mentioned that Scouting America has agreed to make some adjustments—he pointed out five specific changes, suggesting that additional ones might follow.
Among the changes, Hegseth stated that the organization would adhere to Executive Order 14173 by revising its publications to eliminate politicized or discriminatory language. He emphasized, “No more DEI,” referring to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, which he noted would no longer feature any merit badges.
Furthermore, he outlined a revision in membership policy, clarifying that it will be based strictly on biological sex at birth. Applications will now only have options for male or female, and this must align with the birth certificate. According to Hegseth, this means biological boys and girls cannot share intimate spaces—like bathrooms or tents—together.
Additionally, the organization will waive registration fees for children in active-duty military families and plans to collaborate with the Army to introduce a military service medal.
In a statement, Scouting America expressed pride in its ongoing support for military families, reflecting a commitment to align its operations with the new executive order. They announced new initiatives, including merit badges aimed at honoring military service and veterans, while reinforcing the core principles of leadership and character.
Earlier this month, Sean Parnell, an Army Public Affairs assistant, indicated that their review of the partnership with Scouting America was both thorough and ongoing. Hegseth mentioned that the Army would evaluate the organization’s progress in six months, stating that continued support hinges on meaningful progress in the designated reforms.
If the organization does not demonstrate satisfactory commitment to these agreed changes, Hegseth warned that they could lose Army support. “I think ideally,” he reflected, “the Boy Scouts should return to their foundational purpose: to mold boys into men. Perhaps that is something that could happen in the future.”
