A remarkable addition has been made to the Girl Scout program—a unique patch that can be earned through involvement in Pride events, exploring “LGBTQ+ history,” or creating artwork that pays tribute to members of the “LGBTQ+ community.”
To earn the coveted “LGBTQ+ Pride Month Fun Patch,” Girl Scouts are presented with a diverse array of twenty tasks, many of which are aimed at fostering inclusivity and sparking discussions around the contentious subject matter.
One suggestion in the Girl Scouts’ guide recommends LGBTQ+ community members and their families to attend a Pride event during the month of June. Furthermore, Girl Scouts are encouraged to engage with children’s books featuring LGBTQ+ characters, expanding their understanding of diverse identities.
The creative possibilities are vast, as girls can choose to memorize a poem composed by an LGBTQ+ poet or proudly display rainbow flags to commemorate LGBTQ+ Pride Month. In addition, they can embark on a fascinating journey to learn about six significant LGBTQ+ historical landmarks across the United States, mapping them out and delving into their importance.
Immersing themselves in history, Girl Scouts are invited to explore the profound impact of the Stonewall Uprising of 1969 on the LGBTQ+ community. The pamphlet even includes poetry that beautifully captures the essence of that momentous occasion.
According to the Girl Scouts of the United States of America, the Pride Month patch is an inclusive initiative crafted for Girl Scouts of all levels and their leaders. It serves as a means to honor LGBTQ+ history, celebrate the rich diversity of cultures and identities within the LGBTQ+ community, and acknowledge the countless contributions they have made and continue to make across our nation.
The comprehensive glossary provided by the Girl Scouts aims to foster understanding, with “queer” defined as a term celebrating and embracing people of all gender identities and the diverse ways individuals express love for one another. The guide also sheds light on the concept of being transgender or trans, describing it as a condition where an individual’s internal gender identity differs from the biological gender assigned at birth.
Recent photos captured the Eastern Massachusetts Girl Scouts actively participating in a vibrant Pride parade, embracing the values of diversity, belonging, and inclusion. The organization’s commitment to welcoming individuals who identify as girls, transgender boys, non-binary youth members, and adults of all genders is passionately expressed and celebrated.
