US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth Proposes Cuts to Military Ties with Scouting America Over 'Genderless' Allegations
In a surprising move, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is reportedly planning to sever military ties with Scouting America, a leading boys' scouting organization that recently began admitting girls. The decision comes after Hegseth expressed outrage over the group's attempts to create more inclusive spaces for all members.
A draft memo obtained by NPR reveals that Hegseth believes Scouting America has abandoned its masculine values and is instead promoting "gender confusion." He claims that this shift would harm national security, as it would divert resources away from protecting US territory. The memo also proposes cutting off medical and logistical aid to the National Jamboree, a major annual gathering of Scouts.
Scouting America has responded by stating its commitment to continuing its work despite Hegseth's plans. The organization emphasizes its nonpartisan nature and its long history of cooperation with the military. However, with the US Department of Defense under Hegseth's leadership, the group's future is uncertain.
Hegseth's decision comes on the heels of his efforts to slash diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at the Pentagon. Critics have accused him of promoting a narrow, exclusionary worldview that prioritizes traditional masculine values over inclusivity.
The impact of Hegseth's plans could be far-reaching, particularly for military personnel who benefit from Scouting America's programs. As many as 20% of cadets and midshipmen at the service academies are Eagle Scouts, and those who join the military as Scouts often receive advanced rank and better pay.
The controversy highlights the ongoing debate over inclusivity and diversity in US institutions, particularly those with a long history like Scouting America.
In a surprising move, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is reportedly planning to sever military ties with Scouting America, a leading boys' scouting organization that recently began admitting girls. The decision comes after Hegseth expressed outrage over the group's attempts to create more inclusive spaces for all members.
A draft memo obtained by NPR reveals that Hegseth believes Scouting America has abandoned its masculine values and is instead promoting "gender confusion." He claims that this shift would harm national security, as it would divert resources away from protecting US territory. The memo also proposes cutting off medical and logistical aid to the National Jamboree, a major annual gathering of Scouts.
Scouting America has responded by stating its commitment to continuing its work despite Hegseth's plans. The organization emphasizes its nonpartisan nature and its long history of cooperation with the military. However, with the US Department of Defense under Hegseth's leadership, the group's future is uncertain.
Hegseth's decision comes on the heels of his efforts to slash diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at the Pentagon. Critics have accused him of promoting a narrow, exclusionary worldview that prioritizes traditional masculine values over inclusivity.
The impact of Hegseth's plans could be far-reaching, particularly for military personnel who benefit from Scouting America's programs. As many as 20% of cadets and midshipmen at the service academies are Eagle Scouts, and those who join the military as Scouts often receive advanced rank and better pay.
The controversy highlights the ongoing debate over inclusivity and diversity in US institutions, particularly those with a long history like Scouting America.