Rev. Irene Monroe: The Boy Scouts of America – another closed door for black GBTQ youth
http://pamshouseblend.firedoglake.com/2013/02/21/rev-irene-monroe-the-boy-scouts-of-america-another-closed-door-for-black-gbtq-youth/2/21/13
Pam Spaulding
The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) and the Black Church are rightly lauded for molding young black men into adult leaders. BSA troops have produced distinguished African American scouts like retired four-star general Colin Powell, six-time NBA champion Michael Jordan, and Heisman Trophy winner Herschel Walker.
African American participation in the Boy Scout movement dates back to 1911, and its impact has not only forced the integration of young black males into the organization, but also continues to address many of the challenges these young males confront today.
With young African American males (particularly those in urban enclaves) at much higher risks for incarceration, gang violence, unemployment, fatherlessness, and substance abuse, the BSA has been a source of constant and consistent strong positive male figures for these young black boys.
Like many BSA troops, African American troops are often strongly affiliated with community black churches. These churches not only hold homophobic views, but also hold a tight-fisted hand on their non gender conforming males.
