Gay Boy Scouts

[sherryinutah]

Seems like we're experiencing a lot of changes as we begin a new year.  Recently, it was approved for gay boys to participate in the Boy Scout program.

I'm the first to recognize that the Scouting program can be very healthy for a young guys self-esteem.  I also believe in equal opportunities for everyone, regardless, of their sexual orientation.

I understand that Gay men are not allowed to be leaders.  That makes sense, to me, as well.   

What are your thoughts about this change?   

[Kirenisa]

I'm straight but I'm glad that we're making exceptions because honestly it seems unfair to exclude someone just because of their sexual orientation.

[natashaspy]

i see no problem with it.  i also see no problem with gay leaders, its ridiculous to assume that they would molest a child just because they are gay. 

[countrygirl12]

Seems like we're experiencing a lot of changes as we begin a new year.  Recently, it was approved for gay boys to participate in the Boy Scout program.

I'm the first to recognize that the Scouting program can be very healthy for a young guys self-esteem.  I also believe in equal opportunities for everyone, regardless, of their sexual orientation.

I understand that Gay men are not allowed to be leaders.  That makes sense, to me, as well.   

What are your thoughts about this change?   

I didn't know they even ask if you are gay or not before you joined the boy scouts.  I think a lot of this was started (like a lot of other things) just to get attention or get something started.

[lguzman1]

Hey they have right too.

[Penwoir]

I'm straight and I believe everyone has equal rights. I wouldn't mind my sons being taught by a Gay or straight Leader at a Boy Scout group or School. I see them as people not as gay or straight. However, clearly, I would not want my kids being taught by someone who was "interested" in young children of any gender. That's the bigger issue.

[smithjcsdfw]

As a former boy scout and a former leader in the boy scout organization it is my opinion that these boys are so not worried about their sexual orientation at that age as much as what skills they are learning such as first aid, camping, leadership, and other merit badges that they will earn to help them later in life.  I know of no skills one way or the other that have anything to do with sex or sexual orientation.  Guess the next target will be the girl scouts.

[Nancy5]

I don't have any sons, but have 2 daughters.  I don't care what the leader's sexual preference is.  It's totally stupid on anyone's ideas that if you are a gay man you will go after young boys, or a gay woman going after young girls.  It's much more important that the person , straight or gay, helps your child learn things and be a better person, and to worry about the "straight, nice man" who "loves little girls and boys".  I have a gay friend who is a teacher in the school system.  She has been in a relationship longer than I've been married.  She has no sexual interest in any child, just like most straight people have no sexual interest in children.