https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/a-few-suggestions-for-the-scouts/2017/10/15/c3711960-af95-11e7-9b93-b97043e57a22_story.html?utm_term=.cde98390d372
The Oct. 12 front-page article on the Boy Scouts described how the organization’s dwindling membership inspired the Boy Scouts in recent years to admit gay and transgender members and now girls. Unfortunately, the media and Boy Scouts never mention who is still left out: atheists.
There is a requirement that scouts and leaders must agree with a principle that says, “The Boy Scouts of America maintains that no member can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God.” Many open atheists have been refused membership or been kicked out of the Boy Scouts when they stopped believing in any deities. Apparently, the BSA does not consider honesty a core value and would rather youngsters pretend to believe. This certainly would teach them a lesson on how best to prepare for political careers, because open atheists currently have little chance of being elected. On the other hand, the military allows atheists to serve openly and honorably. However, even atheists with an honorable military discharge are not deemed fit to serve as Boy Scout leaders.
Herb Silverman, Charleston, S.C.
The writer is founder of the Secular Coalition for America.
The Oct. 12 front-page article on the Boy Scouts described how the organization’s dwindling membership inspired the Boy Scouts in recent years to admit gay and transgender members and now girls. Unfortunately, the media and Boy Scouts never mention who is still left out: atheists.
There is a requirement that scouts and leaders must agree with a principle that says, “The Boy Scouts of America maintains that no member can grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God.” Many open atheists have been refused membership or been kicked out of the Boy Scouts when they stopped believing in any deities. Apparently, the BSA does not consider honesty a core value and would rather youngsters pretend to believe. This certainly would teach them a lesson on how best to prepare for political careers, because open atheists currently have little chance of being elected. On the other hand, the military allows atheists to serve openly and honorably. However, even atheists with an honorable military discharge are not deemed fit to serve as Boy Scout leaders.
Herb Silverman, Charleston, S.C.
The writer is founder of the Secular Coalition for America.
