Last updated on June 11th, 2023 at 05:35 pm
The Girl Scouts of America recently introduced a new “LGBTQ+ Pride Month Fun Patch,” raising concerns for many who value the traditional values that the organization once represented. To earn this patch, girls are urged to participate in a variety of activities promoting the LGBTQ+ agenda. The requirements include attending Pride events, studying LGBTQ+ history, or creating artwork that celebrates figures from the LGBTQ+ community.
The activities, which include reading children’s books featuring LGBTQ+ characters, crafting rainbow flags for Pride Month, and studying LGBTQ+ historical landmarks, appear to go beyond merely promoting tolerance and acceptance. There is a fear among some conservatives that this is pushing an ideological viewpoint onto young impressionable minds.
Even more worryingly, these girls are encouraged to learn about and commemorate events like the Stonewall Uprising, a violent confrontation with law enforcement. One might question if this is the sort of example we want to set for our future leaders.
Furthermore, the Girl Scouts’ website states that the Pride Month patch is designed to “honor LGBTQ+ history,” “celebrate the diverse cultures and identities of LGBTQ+ people,” and “acknowledge the many contributions of the LGBTQ+ community.” While it’s certainly important to teach respect and empathy for all individuals, many conservatives feel that this overt promotion of one particular lifestyle goes too far.
The Girl Scouts have moved a long way from their original mission. They are now providing a glossary of LGBTQ+ terms and have been photographed marching in a Pride parade. Their social media posts state they welcome “everyone who identifies as a girl, transgender boys, non-binary youth members, and adults of all genders.” This raises questions about whether they are straying from their initial purpose of fostering girlhood and are now promoting a specific ideology that may not align with the values of many families they serve.