Re: Out Of Curiosity
Bill O'Connell (oconnwil@AUGUSTA.K12.WI.US)
Wed, 21 Apr 1999 09:01:48 +0000
WAIT! 1) Girls are NOT discriminated from our program. How about
explorers and female leaders. There are more girls than ever before.
Homosexuals - I respect the rights of those individuals. I have
nothing against them. But when it comes to a "male" organization,
there may be some problems with that. Why doesn't the Army, Navy,
etc allow them in?
Bill O'Connell
Date: Wed, 21 Apr 1999 07:44:03 EDT
Reply-to: CubmasterB@AOL.COM
From: Bob Riley <CubmasterB@AOL.COM>
Subject: Out Of Curiosity
To: SCOUTS-L@LISTSERV.TCU.EDU
Andrew Trent writes:
<< We DO
exclude atheists (read "those with no religious beliefs"), >>
Yes BSA does. And Atheists are not the only group that
we discriminate against. How about girls and homosexuals?
Haven't we come far enough by now to open this great
organization up to those who may think, look and live
somewhat differently than us?
That sounds ugly doesn't it? How many of us would
describe BSA in those terms?
Wouldn't that be a great way to bring in the 21st century?
I had a mother approach me about two years ago. She
told me how much her seven year old wanted to be a scout,
just like his favorite uncle. However, she had heard that
you had to believe in God and their family was Atheists.
My heart broke as I tried to explain to her, in the broadest
terms, what BSA's stand on the issue was. She seemed
to be a very honorable woman and told me they could not
pretend about something like that.
She thanked me for my time and concern and left with
tears welling up in her eyes.
My heart was breaking.
Please spare me all the religious reasons why Mr. Powell set
things up as he did. It was a long time ago and things have changed.
That little boy will never be able to enjoy all the advantages and
joy of being a Cub Scout, Boy Scout or even a leader.
Can't we all find it in our hearts to open up our
exclusive club to those we discriminate against? Now THAT would
take all the ammunition away from our critics.
And that little boy will know the joy of being a Scout.
Bob Riley
Cubmaster
Pack 639
Watervliet, NY
Twin Rivers Council
