Sexual Orientation Doesn't Matter: Valley Forge Boy Scouts

Sexual orientation will not affect membership or employment with the Valley Forge-based branch of the Boy Scouts of America, according to a new policy adopted by the organization’s regional governing body.

The policy reinforces the Cradle of Liberty Council’s longstanding commitment to “inclusivity,” it said in a statement on Friday:

Discrimination in any form, including but not limited to discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, is contrary to the Scout Oath and Law, and we in the Cradle of Liberty Council will vigorously oppose it from whatever source. The Cradle of Liberty Council is an inclusive organization. We welcome any person of good will seeking to advance our mission of character development, citizenship training and fitness in young people through our programs based on the Scout Oath and Law.

The Council governs the Boy Scouts in Philadelphia, Montgomery, and Delaware County area, and says that the new policy applies to any qualified person looking to be a leader for area youth or employed by the Cradle of Liberty Council.

The Boy Scouts have made headlines in recent years for their controversial handling of gay leaders and members, sometimes culminating in firings or resignations.

Boy Scout President Robert Gates, the former Secretary of Defense, recently called for the organization to lift its ban on gay adults during a May meeting.

“We are excited to make this announcement because we believe it is the right thing to do, and because we want our Council to welcome and engage the best people to lead the youth we serve,” the Council said in a statement. “We value diversity and look forward to becoming a stronger youth-serving organization and community partner.”