I am writing in response to the article “Boy Scouts’ Rebranding Sparks Debate” (May 6). I applaud the Boy Scouts of America’s continued change to be more inclusive by welcoming girls into the Boy Scouts. The article fails to recognize that BSA has been supporting co-ed programs for almost 40 years. The Venturing program started in 1989 and allows boys and girls to participate together in high-adventure programs. 

The article quotes people who indicate that this change will no longer allow boys to be boys. As an active Boy Scout, I am able to participate in outdoor and skill-building programs that I would not otherwise be able to do on my own. If anything, the doubters should look again at the issue and consider which organization is stuck on classic stereotypes and focuses on badges such as Comparison Shopping and Eating for Beauty for girls.

MIKEY McBRIDE
Troop 65
Mt. Lebanon

The writer is in sixth grade and has achieved first-class rank in Boy Scouts.

First Published: May 13, 2018, 4:00 a.m.