Boy Scouts of America announced on Wednesday plans to allow girls to join its Cub Scout program and to develop a scouting program for older girls that would enable them to reach the rank of Eagle Scout. Responses to the news have been ... mixed to say the least.
There are a number of perspectives at play â from traditionalists who consider the move a triumph of âpolitical correctnessâ to girlsâ empowerment advocates who worry about the decisionâs effect on the Girl Scouts of the USA and the girl-centered curriculum and leadership the organization offers.
On Twitter, many have expressed their support and criticism for a variety of reasons.
Some people are praising this decision as a step toward equality and inclusiveness.
Many parents with sons in Boy Scouts of America programs say they already bring their daughters to meetings and events, and that this change will be a great way to let these girls fully participate and let people get involved in scouting as a family.
Several parents also said BSAâs curriculum is more suited to their daughtersâ interests.
On the other hand, there are those who see this change as a distressing rejection of tradition.
Many conservatives and traditionalists have also blamed âthe leftâ and âsocial justice warriorsâ for the BSAâs decision.
However, others theorized that the decision was less politically motivated and more due to declining membership.
Some Twitter users have pointed out the BSAâs less-than-stellar track record when it comes to gay rights, religious tolerance and sex abuse. Though the BSA has taken steps to right past wrongs, the Girl Scouts of the USA typically has a more progressive reputation.
Many girlsâ empowerment advocates are concerned about this decisionâs effect on the Girl Scouts of the USA, which focuses on developing âcourage, confidence and characterâ in girls and helping young women become leaders in their communities.
On a lighter note, many Twitter users are taking the opportunity to make âParks and Recreationâ references.
Girl Scouts of the USA has yet to release a statement about the decision and did not immediately respond to HuffPostâs request for comment.
