On Tuesday, the Boy Scouts of America announced that it will change its name to “Scouting America.” This rebrand shows that the organization is dedicated to welcoming every youth and family in America to experience the benefits of Scouting.
The change will officially take effect on Feb. 8, 2025, the same day as the organization’s 115th birthday.
“Though our name will be new, our mission remains unchanged: we are committed to teaching young people to be Prepared. For Life,” Roger Krone, the organization’s President and CEO, said in a statement. “This will be a simple but significant evolution as we seek to ensure everyone feels welcome in Scouting.”
The organization’s name change marks the first time in its 114-year history. The rebrand marks a significant shift as the organization bounced back from bankruptcy following a series of assault claims.
The Boy Scouts of America today announced that it will rebrand to Scouting America, reflecting the organization’s ongoing commitment to welcome every youth and family in America to experience the benefits of Scouting. Learn more:https://t.co/EiE1iasb2x pic.twitter.com/D11RkvCr45
— Boy Scouts – BSA (@boyscouts) May 7, 2024
The rebrand also represents a shift in the organization’s long-standing traditions. In the past, the organization had strict rules that stopped gay youths and girls from joining.
Recently, they have changed their policies and allowed them to become members.
“In the next 100 years, we want any youth in America to feel very, very welcome to come to our programs,” Krone said in an interview before the announcement.
The scouting organization was initially created in 1910 to encourage urban boys to channel their physical energy into hiking and camping.
The organization recognized that young boys are different from young girls, and it proved highly successful as urban parents wanted their boys to build competence and confidence.
Times changed, and the organization accepted gay boys in 2013, validated gay leaders in 2015, and welcomed girls in 2018.
Krone also suggested that scouts should respect each other regardless of their motives and merits.
“Scouting America provides a welcoming, safe environment where youth can become the best version of themselves by learning from and respecting each other,” he said.
According to the Associated Press, generations of scouts have included presidents (Bill Clinton and Gerald Ford), astronauts (Buzz Aldrin) and celebrities (actor Harrison Ford and filmmaker Steven Spielberg).