First let me say that ordinarily I'm a big admirer of your organization as a whole and your commitment to giving boys discipline, camaraderie and life skills. I know tons of boys that have learned a great deal from your programs and have nothing but fabulous things to say about being a scout. However, I must say, today, I'm just disappointed in you.
This vote that's been dominating the press in the last few weeks should never have happened. Who someone is on their own time isn't a topic to be voted for or against. Whether you allow homosexuals to lead groups or allow them to become scouts will sound just as ridiculous a few years from now as not allowing someone to use a water-fountain because of the color of their skin. You are telling every gay leader or member, that they are less than their peers and what makes them unique won't be tolerated.
I'd like to give you points for agreeing to allow homosexuals into your troops but I'm not sure I can. Like I said, you're still singling them out by voting on them in the first place. But my biggest issue is that those very same adolescents who are struggling with coming out of the closet, will need role-models during this difficult time. Those gay troop leaders that you've just ostracized from your entire organization could be nothing but an inspiration for them.
The Boy Scouts have strived to provide the skills and values that will be needed for future men of character. Aren't kindness, acceptance, and openness included in these values?
Sincerely,
A Disappointed Citizen
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