The Boy Scouts of America - a cornerstone of American youth culture for over a century - is undergoing a profound transformation.
In a huge move, the organization has announced its rebranding to Scouting America, signaling a departure from tradition and a commitment to inclusivity.
The name change comes after the organization only recently started to welcome both girls and gay youths as members.
This shift, announced at the organization's annual meeting in Florida on Tuesday (May 7), comes amidst financial turmoil, dwindling membership numbers, and a wave of sexual abuse allegations.
These controversies have prompted a strategic reevaluation under the leadership of Roger Krone, its president and CEO.
"In the next 100 years, we want any youth in America to feel very, very welcome to come into our programs," Krone emphasized in an interview with The Associated Press.
The rebranding effort hopes to be a proactive step towards revitalization and growth, with the Irving, Texas-based organization striving to attract a new generation of scouts while still upholding its core values.
Scheduled to take effect on February 8, 2025 - this date will also be the 115th birthday of Scouting America.
From its landmark decision to admit gay youth in 2013 to the groundbreaking inclusion of girls in Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA in recent years, the Boy Scouts of America has been committed to change in the 21st century.
As a result, more than 6,000 girls now hold the honor of earning the title of Eagle Scout.
The simple name change to emphasize the importance of inclusion has been criticized by some people on social media - including figures like Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, who tweeted: "With membership at historic lows, Boy Scouts of America decides to rebrand to make clear that 'boys' are no longer welcome. I’m sure that will help with recruiting."
To be clear, The Boy Scouts of America will still be accepting boys.
Despite the criticism, supporters of the change have hailed the rebrand as a necessary evolution to ensure the organization's relevance in modern times.
As Scouting America charts its course for the future, let's hope more and more children across the US choose to embark on the adventures the organization has provided for over a century - while also feeling a sense of belonging.
