What a difficult topic. There seems to be some very sensible posts about
how to respond or if there even needs to be a response to the Boy Scouts
choice to discriminate against people based on homosexuality. I really
appreciate Catharine Shreves leadership as well as our Superintendent's
acceptance speech. I am thankful that Council Member McDonald questioned our
legal position. And I understand Alan Spear's points about blatant
discrimination and legislature budget response to actions that might or
might not be taken. I have to admit, I even understand Clark Griffith's
post about choosing, although I think Pro-Choice for abortion is about one's
individual right to choose and the BSA's choice is about controlling the
choice of others. The one thing in this thread that I don't understand is
why is it offensive to some, that people speak up their minds about what
they believe is right? Why is it that someone should only solve problems
from the inside? And relative to the op-ed in the paper today: shouldn't
the Eagle Scout argument apply to the national organization as well as
individuals trying to voice their opinions? This is hard - glad I have
girls.
The Boy Scouts of America helped many boys in our country including myself,
although I can't remember how to tie all those darn knots anymore. And the
BSA have chosen to discriminate against homosexuals. And although I
appreciate the help that the BSA gave me and continues to give others, I
cannot stand by as they cast a doubt about the worthiness of homosexuals,
many of whom are my good friends, to lead and be around young boys. I
cannot stand by as they add to the mania in this country that portrays
homosexuals and frankly many men as child abusers. And finally, I cannot in
good conscience standby as they discriminate against fine people who
contribute greatly to our society. And like many other former Boy Scouts
there are two things I can do at this time. First, I have decided to return
my merit badges to the Boy Scouts. Second, I encourage all our elected
leaders to take decisive action against allowing the Boy Scouts of America
to use facilities funded with public monies until at a minimum the local
chapter rebukes the position of the national organization.
This decision by BSA is a personal affront to good men and women all over
our country. And to those of you who don't think discrimination is
personal, try being an at home dad with two girls in our society. The
stares and lack of inclusion are deafening.
Russell W. Peterson
"at home dad with two little girls"
Ward 9
Standish
R U S S E L L P E T E R S O N D E S I G N
"You can only fly if you stretch your wings."
3857 23rd Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55407
612-724-2331
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Russell W. Peterson, RA, CID
Founder
