Boy Scouts of America name change becomes official in effort to be more 'inclusive'
Share and Follow

Nine months after announcing a name change was coming, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) on Saturday officially changed its name in an attempt to “meet the evolving needs of young people.”

The organization adopted the new name, Scouting America, on its 115th anniversary, “marking a pivotal moment in the organization’s journey,” according to a statement released Saturday.

The shift comes after a recent policy change in 2018, allowing girls to join the program. The organization began allowing gay youth in 2013 and ended a blanket ban on gay adult leaders in 2015. 

Scouts of America

The Boy Scouts of America has changed its name to Scouting America. (Tony Gutierrez/Associated Press)

While the name changed, the Texas-based organization said its mission has remained the same for a century: to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. 

“Whether it’s a camping trip, a pinewood derby car race or a trail hike, every adventure encourages personal growth by teaching youth how to set goals and achieve them with determination,” spokespeople wrote in the statement. “As we look to the future, Scouting America is dedicated to providing young people with the values, skills and experiences they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

The Boy Scouts of America's CEO

Roger Krone, president and chief executive officer of the Boy Scouts of America, at the organization’s headquarters in Irving, Texas (The Associated Press)

The organization’s website features its new name, but social media accounts still have the traditional handles.

“Scouting America has helped instill timeless values for multiple generations of Americans,” Krone wrote in the statement. “In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the values and skills instilled by Scouting are more critical than ever and the need for strong character, ethical decision-making and effective leadership remains paramount.”

Krone added it is reaffirming its commitment to providing a “safe and supportive environment” where young people can develop essential qualities.

Boy Scout badges

A Boy Scout uniform hangs in a store at the Marin Council of the Boy Scouts of America on July 27, 2015 in San Rafael, California.  (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

“Scouting America has remained committed to providing youth with a safe environment where they can learn meaningful life skills, create lifelong memories and grow into tomorrow’s leaders,” the organization wrote in the statement. “In fact, more than 130 million Americans have been through Scouting America programs since our founding in 1910.”

Fox News Digital previously reported the rebranding came after a substantial hit in membership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It also follows a court order to pay out a $2.46 billion settlement involving about 82,000 former Boy Scouts who claimed they were sexually abused by BSA officials and volunteers.

Filing for bankruptcy allowed the organization to keep operating.

Fox News Digital’s Michael Dorgan and the Associated Press contributed to this report. 

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Old Farmer's Almanac Thanksgiving forecast: East stays dry,West gets drenched

Old Farmer’s Almanac Thanksgiving forecast: East stays dry,West gets drenched

The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts clear skies for much of the East…
Israel celebrates ceasefire deal ahead of Trump visit

Israel celebrates ceasefire deal ahead of Trump visit

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site…
Whistleblower alleges blue city jails hired over 100 illegal guards over several years

Whistleblower alleges blue city jails hired over 100 illegal guards over several years

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! State and local officials…
Nor'easter to batter East Coast with heavy rain, strong winds: What you need to know about the forest

Nor’easter to bring heavy rain, strong winds to East Coast; New Jersey under state of emergency

A nor’easter churned its way up the East Coast on Sunday, with…
Trump peace plan for Gaza could be just a 'pause' before Hamas strikes again, experts warn

Dozens killed in Gaza as violence erupts between Hamas and armed clans

Protesters in Gaza target Hamas For the first time since Hamas seized…
Bella Hadid details battle with 'paralyzing' depression and anxiety

Inside Bella Hadid’s Courageous Journey: Overcoming ‘Paralyzing’ Depression and Anxiety

Bella Hadid candidly addressed her ongoing struggles with anxiety and depression in…
Nor'easter storm rattles towards East Coast bringing downpours

Powerful Nor’easter Approaches East Coast with Heavy Rainfall Expected

A nor’easter headed up the East Coast has begun wreaking havoc on the…
My fiancé won't loan me money to pay my rent

Financial Boundaries in Relationships: When Your Fiancé Refuses to Help with Rent

DEAR ABBY: I am a 60-year-old woman, recently divorced, and currently in…