Here's why the Boy Scouts of America are changing their iconic name after 114 years

Embracing global diversity trends, the Boy Scouts of America, a 114-year-old institution dedicated to developing responsible, self-reliant youth, has announced its rebranding to "Scouting America." This change aims to create a welcoming environment for all genders.

The rebranding to "Scouting America," effective on the organization’s 115th anniversary on February 8, 2025, reinforces the organization's longstanding commitment to enriching young lives and extends an invitation to all American families to experience the benefits of Scouting. While the rebranding is about to happen, the organization's commitment to inclusivity began over five years ago when young girls were welcomed into Cub Scouting and Scouts BSA programs. The shift from "Boy Scouts of America" to "Scouts BSA" in 2019 marked an initial step towards inclusivity, welcoming nearly 77,000 young girls aspiring to earn the Eagle Scout rank, per CNN.

The organization now includes over 176,000 girls and young women, with more than 6,000 achieving the prestigious Eagle Scout rank. The president and chief executive officer of Boy Scouts, Roger A. Krone stated, "Though our name will be new, our mission remains unchanged-we are committed to teaching young people to be prepared for life. This will be a simple but very important evolution as we seek to ensure that everyone feels welcome in Scouting." The organization has been striving to educate the youth in some crucial life skills and unlock their leadership potential while making the process fun.

Krone added, "Scouting America provides a welcoming, safe environment where youth can become the best version of themselves by learning from and respecting each other. I encourage everyone to join us and experience the benefits of Scouting." While including young women in their scouting programs began in 2017, the organization supported the inclusion of gay youth in 2013, per Fox News. By 2015, the organization ended a blanket ban on gay adult leaders paving the way for more inclusive reforms.

In February 2021, the BSA made history by awarding nearly 1000 young women the esteemed Eagle Scouts rank. "In earning the rank of Eagle Scout, young people gain new skills, learn to overcome obstacles and demonstrate leadership among their peers and in their communities. These benefits are invaluable, and we are elated that they are now available to both young men and young women," read BSA's statement to CNN. Many young women were excited that they were able to earn the badges that their brothers or friends were earning at Boy Scouts. Despite the backlash faced by the BSA for including girls, the initiative was appreciated by the young women who had always wanted to be empowered by the organization's prestigious programs.