Scout Patch Collectors

It is not a choice to be gay. It just is. There are Scouts there who are stnglguirg with this issue and who fear the loneliness, discrimination and the loss of friends. It should not be this way but this is how it is in some places. For a Scout to see, meet and talk to someone who is comfortable with their lifestyle choice, adjusted and productive would be a great comfort. Everybody needs a role model. Some Scouts may not be able to even talk to someone with a rainbow button for fear of reprisal. Just as this Jambo experience may be the only opportunity a Scout from some countries to meet someone from another country or culture, it is the same regarding the LGBT issue. This may be the only time for some to meet a LGBT person safely. There is a time and place for everything. Maybe this might not be appropriate for younger scouts; however, we are dealing with young adults at Jambo. It is a confusing time for some kids. There is a high rate of suicide among teens stnglguirg with sexual orientation issues. In Jambo we are promoting a safe environment for constructive conversation about all topics such as religion and culture. Why would this topic not be included as well? If you saved or helped one child or one young adult, wouldn’t this conversation opportunity at Jambo be worth it? If you want Scouting to survive and impact young people into the 21st century then offer the opportunity of applying Scouting values of friendship, kindness, courtesy, respect etc to the discussion of this lifestyle option. I agree with the comments of Bjorn. If you need to get the boat to shore, does it really matter what the lifestyle is of the person who is padding?

Walter is right. But He might be able to promote field day and eailcpsely a GOTA station (get on the air). Similar but doesn’t involve BSA. Maybe organize a special event that includes a GOTA station and a Tech class. Some good ideas though.