17 November 2008
BSA Junior Lobbyists
Posted by admin under: politics .
Hm. This sounds a bit strange in Washington, D.C.’s Sun Gazette.
Watch out, General Assembly, the Boy Scouts are coming. And it’s the County Board that sent them.
Members of Boy Scout Troop 167 and other local troops came to the Nov. 15 County Board meeting to press for board action on initiatives to promote solar power. Board members replied that they supported the ideas, but needed permission from the legislature in order to enact some of them.
Board member Mary Hynes suggested that the Scouts speak to state senators and delegates. “It’s a good thing if you talk to them about things you care about,” she said.
“You may have more influence than we do,” sighed County Board member Jay Fisette, referencing the county government’s low batting average in getting its priorities enacted by the General Assembly.
Fisette had one piece of practical advice for the Scouts: “If you go [speak to legislators], wear your uniforms,” he said.
I’m not in agreement with Ms. Hynes on this one. Yes, please talk to your legislators, but why wear the uniform? To convey that this is a BSA position? To say that you’re a trustworthy individual? I’m not a fan of mixing political advocacy and Scouting. Sounds like the Board wants junior lobbyists for free. How about a nice hike up a hill instead? I can’t say I’m impressed with the judgement of the leaders of 167 if they were trying to get money for solar power while in uniform. What about the wind guys? How about wave action? Nuclear? Clean coal? I get the environmental concern, but I’m not comfortable with promoting a political stance in khaki.
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- Girl Scouts Endorses Political Agenda. Kind of.
- European Scouting Invites Legislation
- Girl Scouts Unveil Their New Uniforms
