Did the Boy Scouts Get It Right?

A boy’s sexual orientation may soon be moot when he goes to join one national organization.

According to reports Thursday evening, the Boy Scouts of America voted to drop sexual orientation as one component of membership into the youth group. While the organization’s decision paved the way for openly gay boys to become Scouts, the group’s leadership stopped short of allowing gay Scout leaders.

Want to blog about this topic? E-mail Community Editor Liz Kennedy to find out how you can become a Local Voices blogger on your hometown Patch.

Not all Scout troops may be receptive to the change.

In previous discussions over the issue, BSA spokesman Deron Smith said that under the then-proposed change, the BSA would not dictate a position to the various units, members or parents—it would be entirely up to the relevant sponsor organization to make the call.

Do you think the Boy Scouts made the right decision to allow openly gay boys? Should the organization go one step further and allow Scout leaders of any sexual orientation?

Share what’s on your mind with us, and then return here to see what your neighbors in North Fulton, Forsyth and Cherokee counties have said.