8 July 2009
Girl Scouts Versus American Heritage Girls + Boy Scouts?
Posted by admin under: Uncategorized .
Reading this story over at ScoutingNews.org I was immediately taken aback. The Boy Scouts of America has signed a memorandum of mutual support with the American Heritage Girls. I became aware of them just about one year ago and while I have no problem with competing girl organizations I was somewhat put off by their complete focus on Jesus Christ. I like the ability of Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts to earn religious emblems in any faith they pursue. So when I read the following from the press release I was surprised.
The American Heritage Girls (AHG) was presented a Memorandum of Mutual Support by the Boy Scouts of America at the AHG National Leadership Conference on Friday, June 12, 2009 at 7 pm at Vineyard Community Church in Cincinnati.
This Memorandum is historic in nature as it is the first presented to an all girls’ organization in the one hundred year history of the Boy Scouts of America. The Memorandum was presented to AHG National Executive Director, Patti Garibay by BSA’s Director of the Community Alliances Team, Charles Holmes, of the Boy Scouts of America, Irving, Texas.
This news lends itself to paranoia well. As I recall and as is posted at Wikipedia:
The organization was formed in 1995 by a group of parents from West Chester, Ohio, who were unhappy that the Girl Scouts accepted lesbians as troop leaders, allowed girls to substitute another word more applicable to their belief for “God” in the promise, and allegedly banned prayer at meetings.
So, the BSA has supported a Christians-only group formed in opposition to the Girl Scouts. Hey, some of the principles are the same so it’s no biggie as long as the BSA has a similar understanding with the GSUSA. Does it? I couldn’t find one on the BSA’s site so I sent a note off to their media department. Almost everyone I know who has a boy in Boy Scouts and has a girl has that girl in Girl Scouts. So, I hope there’s something linking these two historic organizations. We’ll find out.
Oh, yeah, the other thing it seemed like was happening was the BSA is trying to have a link with the AHG so their girls can bridge into Venturing. Since the AHG advancement has a Tenderfoot rank and an Explorer rank and they earn merit badges all of which are protected terms under the Congressional charter this may also be a way for the BSA to avoid having to argue over their terms while stilling leaving themselves open to opposing other groups that may use BSA words in their programs. That’s me overthinking it, but it’s possible.
Update: Shauna has commented that the Chrisitian requirement applies only to leaders of AHG units because they must agree to the statement of faith which, in part, reads “We believe that there is One Triune God – Father, Jesus Christ His one and only Son, and the Holy Spirit – Creator of the universe and eternally existent. We believe the Holy Scriptures (Old/New Testament) to be the inspired and authoritative Word of God”.
I’m not sure how comfortable Jewish or Hindu parents would be if all of their daughters’ leaders were exclusively pro-Christian, but I don’t know anyone in the American Heritage Girls and its entirely possible that they’re happy with the situation.
- And Now a Rant from the Right
- boyandgirlscouts.islam
- Boy Scouts Might Advertise More Co-Ed Aspects
- Scoutparents.org
- Jews or Jesus?
52 Comments so far...
Shauna Bowers Says:
9 July 2009 at 1:51 am.
BSA has never signed such a document with GSUSA. If you would like a copy of the the Memorandum of Mutual Support I would be happy to send you a copy. For the record, American Heritage Girls accepts ALL girls, whether they are Christian or not. However, they have to be willing to abide by the AHG Oath which states, “I promise to love God, cherish my family, honor my country, and serve in my community.” Leaders, on the other hand, must be Christians who are living a God-honoring life and agree with the AHG statement of faith. You can check it out at http://www.ahgonline.org. I left Girl Scouts last year after 31 years of loyal service and membership. GSUSA has changed from an outward, service focused organization to an inward-focused organization that is partnering with such organizations as Planned Parenthood and the Ashland Institute–a New Age group.
New York OA Trader | Shared Items From Around The Web – July 9, 2009 Says:
9 July 2009 at 9:01 am.
[...] Girl Scouts Versus American Heritage Girls + Boy Scouts? [...]
Valerie Says:
9 July 2009 at 5:55 pm.
How can this discrimination, or having some one renounce thier relious beliefs not trickle down to the girls if all you allow as adults are Christians? It does, my neice has been the subject of it in her 3 month stint with AHG which is why she is no longer in AHG.
Not only do the adults leading and participating with thier daughters have to make the following statement but also anyone who would like to sponser a troop with meeting location, finaincially, etc. within their organization.
Well I guess my non-profit whom will allow the use of its building will have to say no to AHG based on the statement of faith issue. Sorry the 5 acres and building that holds 300 will only be able to be used by the remainder of non-profits in our area.
History of AHG:
American Heritage Girls was founded in 1995 in West Chester, Ohio by a group of parents wanting a wholesome program for their daughters. These parents were disillusioned with the increasing secular focus of existing organizations for girls. They wanted a Judeo-Christian focused organization for their daughters and believed that other parents were looking for the same for their daughters. This became the catalyst for the birth of the organization we have come to know as the American Heritage Girls.
There was no other organization they were ever a part of only GSUSA. even though thier claim is organizations.
The entire statement of faith made by adults and organizations to work with AHG.
We believe that there is One Triune God – Father, Jesus Christ His one and only Son, and the Holy Spirit – Creator of the universe and eternally existent. We believe the Holy Scriptures (Old/New Testament) to be the inspired and authoritative Word of God. We believe each person is created in His image for the purpose of communing with and worshipping God. We believe in the ministry of the Holy Spirit who enables us to live a Godly life. We believe that each individual is called to love the Lord their God with all their heart, mind, soul and strength; and to love their neighbors as themselves. We believe that each individual is called to live a life of purity, service, stewardship and integrity.
Clarity is further provided to the following terms:
Purity – An AHG member is called to live a life of holiness, being pure of heart, mind, word and deed, reserving sexual activity for the sanctity of marriage; marriage being a lifelong commitment before God between a man and a woman.
Service – An AHG member is called to become a responsible member of their community and the world through selfless acts, which contribute to the welfare of others.
Stewardship – An AHG member is called to use their God given time, talents and money wisely.
Integrity – An AHG member is called to live a moral life, demonstrating the inward motivation to do what is right, regardless of the cost
Valerie
Cincinnati, Ohio
1.5 miles from AG+HG headquarters
Paul Hillebrand Says:
10 July 2009 at 12:53 pm.
As the proud father of one daughter who has earned the Stars and Stripes Award (BSA Eagle equivalent) in AHG and a younger daughter progressing well with that goal, I can say that you are looking in the wrong place for controversy. For girl members the only requirement is for a belief in God. The BSA Scout Oath uses “do my duty to God and my country” The AHG Oath is: “I promise to love God, cherish my family, honor my country and serve in my community”. AHG has many denominations represented in their ranks. A Jewish girl in the troop with my daughter will soon begin working on her Stars and Stripes Award. Furthermore, the AHG has a Non-Discrimination policy that welcomes any girl that is willing to say the Oath and abide by the organizations rules. One element of the AHG Creed is: Reverent. It requires “respect to the beliefs of others”. When recitinng the Creed they begin “As an American Heritage Girl, I promise to be:” Obviously, the BSA and AHG have good reasons for working together and I would be shocked to learn that GSUSA and BSA officially work or are “linked” together. It was once explained to me that AHG troops are never sponsored by public schools due to the faith based program. Also, many public school PTA’s have refused to sponsor BSA Packs or Troops. Over 8,000 members in 30+ states speaks loudly for the growth and obvious need for the AHG program. Our Bill of Rights provides all of us with the right to assembly and association and AHG members use those rights to put their Mission Statement into practice, “Building women of integrity through service to God, family, community and country” Praising God and loving every minute of it – new members welcome!
Brian Warn Says:
14 July 2009 at 4:36 pm.
I helped start one of the AHG troops in the Northwest. We elected to go the AHG route because after evaluating GSUSA, AHG, Camp Fire, and other similar groups or equivalent options, we determined that the AHG program and organization best enabled us to fulfill our primary objectives: (1) enable us to maintain a strong Catholic identity in all aspects of our program, and (2) support us with content and a program structure that provides us the ability to give the girls memorable outdoor-focused experiences that they’ll remember with great fondness during the rest of their lives. We ensure that any potential members and their families know upfront of these objectives when they evaluate us before deciding to join. Beyond that, we do not restrict who is able to be part of the troop.
I’m looking forward to the opportunities that become available to the girls in our region in the wake of the release of this Memorandum of Mutual Support.
-Brian
Sean Says:
19 July 2009 at 11:22 pm.
We are helping start a AHG troop right now, looking from the outside when choosing was the program lines up more with BSA & lately what I’ve observed frrom GSA in general is they don’t. There is nothing wrong with giving girls more choices. What appeals to one girl may not another.
Dave Says:
31 July 2009 at 3:54 pm.
My only comment about the BSA-AHG partnership is that the GSUSA volunteers should try to get GSUSA and BSA to sign a similar MOU (Memorandum of Understanding)!!!
Peter Reins Says:
2 August 2009 at 8:10 pm.
GSUSA and BSA executives and delegates from around the country had a week long meeting just over 5 years ago to see about working out a more direct relationship. GSUSA membership decline is significant, with many of the teen girls heading into Venturing. However, the two could not come together. Culturally very different. Remember, that historically they have always been totally separate organizations. The girls affiliate for decades was Campfire, before it went co-ed.
GSUSA in the past year forced three hundred councils to merge into 100 councils. What they did was eliminate the rural and suburban councils which were pretty conservative with very liberal, feminist oriented councils in urban cores. As a result, money are resources are directed to the center and the rural areas and suburban areas, at least here in california, have been stripped of program. No summer camps this summer in our area. We are hemoraging members, the GS leaders are distressed.
So along comes AHG which has the charter partnership with organizations with a solid program and now with the partnership they have full access to BSA facilities and support. National has not made it known what the long term plan is, but most of us are pretty sure that within five years, and probably a lot less, AHG will be formally under BSA wing. Our councils are already looking into the ability to create AHG units. We are all very excited.
One thing to be worked out of course is AHG religious requirement for leaders, but we are pretty sure that will be brought into alignment with BSA soon.
Those of us with sons in BSA units and daughters in GSUSA are excited. We plan to start a AHG unit as soon as possible. We are saddened by the implosion of the GSUSA program, but they did it to themselves and the girls.
Larry Says:
15 September 2009 at 5:20 pm.
I am very happy that thier is a good alternative to the Girl Scouts. The Boy Scouts are wise to partner with a more culturally compatible organization for girls. I have two girls and they love the AHG troop here. The local BSA leaders are very helpful and some of them have girls in the troop. As an Eagle Scout I am proud of BSA for stepping up.
Anne Says:
18 November 2009 at 5:44 pm.
No, the boys have not signed a similar memorandum with girl scouts. Probably because girl scouts is not faith based like boy scouts are. The American Heritage girls is faith based. It, like the boys scouts, incorporates faith as a requirement. The girl scouts don’t. As a former member of girl scouts, current parent of a boy scout, and current parent of an American Heritage girl; the boy scouts are much more like the American Heritage girls than the girl scouts. So I completely understand the memorandum with AHG, but not with girl scouts.
Jeneane Says:
1 December 2009 at 2:35 am.
Notice one party that is not trying to justify what they do…..GSUSA????
Laura B. Says:
2 December 2009 at 12:55 pm.
Ok, some of these comments are weeks old so those who commented may not see this, but GSUSA actually does have a faith requirement and is faith based. The organization is based on the thought that girls have a strong faith, but we just don’t preach about it like AHG and similar organizations. Faith, in GSUSA, is a personal issue between the girl and her religion, GSUSA wants girls to grow in their faith, in their own way. A troop may or may not emphasize this aspect, or dozens of other aspects, for that matter, of the organization, that does not mean it isn’t there.
From the Blue Book of Basic Documents, 2009:
page 4, the Constitution:
“BELIEFS AND PRINCIPLES
We, the members of Girl Scouts of the United States of America, united by a belief in God, hold that the Girl Scout Promise and Law is the cornerstone of our Movement…
…SPIRITUAL FORCE
The motivating force in Girl Scouting is spiritual. The ways in which members identify and fulfill their spiritual beliefs are personal and private.”
Should you like a full text version of the Blue Book (and this isn’t the abbreviated Leader version) you may visit: https://ocn.girlscouts.org/SupportingDocuments/BlueBook_09.pdf
Anne Says:
3 January 2010 at 2:00 am.
While searching for a scoutig group for my daughter, I wanted an organization that was not affraid to stand up for what they believe in. The girl scouts, though some individual groups may maintain their stand on faith, have caved. They used to declare their faith in God, but now they put an * saying you can replace God with whatever you are comfortable with. I chose BSA for my son because they insist that faith, whatever yours may be, is an integral part of building character, and I chose AHG for my daughter for the same reason. They don’t tell you what to believe, just that you learn more about your faith, how to practice it, and what it means to you. I don’t insist that anyone else choose what I chose, but I also don’t plan on backing down on my reasons. I happen to believe faith is important and admire any organization who is able to stand up to opposition and keep their faith despite the majority of organizations going secular. If you are happy with girl scouts, great stay with girl scouts. But don’t critisize those who choose something else.
Anne Says:
3 January 2010 at 2:10 am.
BTW
I don’t know why so many are critisizing this memorandum. BSA has made many memorandums of mutual support with other organizations, including churches, fraturnities, and non-profit organizations. GSUSA have never complained before about not having their own memorandum, only when AHG received one.
Susan Says:
27 January 2010 at 12:49 pm.
I have a great history with GSUSA. I was a scout and a leader. I am Christian and feel that GSUSA allows a person to pursue knowledge and faith, as well as learning about, respecting and honoring other people’s perspectives. I thought I might want to put my son in Boy Scouts but I am uncomfortable with the paramilitary, conservative, and discriminatory aspects of BSA. This MOU confirms my decision not to put my son in BSA. If BSA has more in common with AHG than GSUSA, it is not the organization for us. Is there a boy’s organization that is more in line with GSUSA values?
A R C Says:
17 February 2010 at 9:39 pm.
Having been a leader in GSUSA and even purchased a lifetime membership in the organization… I find that the trend is not one I can support. The girls are more badge oriented and not interested at all in the Journeys program. In 2012, the Gold award will require Journeys to be completed – not badges any longer. I have asked for years is this the way it is going, and was assured that no. This council is trying to sell it camp?! I think that GSUSA is definitely shifting its focus from their more traditional one. In their decision, I have actively looked into other scouting groups including Frontier Girls, Girl Guides and Campfire Girls.
Another big difference between the organizations is that GSUSA troops are “owned” by the Council; however, AHG troops are “owned” by the sponsoring organizations such as BSA. I think there is room in this World for all of them – you just need to find the one that works best for your girl and your family.
Julie Says:
12 March 2010 at 5:38 am.
@Susan. There are a lot of alternatives that might be a better fit for you. Spiral Scouts, Earth Scouts, Navigators, Campfire USA, and Boys & Girls Club of America are all inclusive organizations. Boy Scouts is not for everyone — only for those that agree with and abide by its principles. It’s better for everyone to find the right fit. I certainly wouldn’t want to put mine in a group whose core tenets I disagreed with. For us, BSA fits well. We have seen the disaster that ensues when parents who don’t agree with their values put little Johnny in the troop.
Summer Says:
13 March 2010 at 1:07 pm.
I am currently a Girl Scout Leader thru GSUSA for my daughters troop & have been for the last few years. As far as far as BSA & GSUSA having any type of agreement i don’t know, but I do know that the Boy Scouts have always been more than willing to show our girls things @ of camps & allow us to use thier campgrounds aswell. Bu the main reason I wanted to post on this site is bcuz of the disturbing things that i have just found out about the brochures that GSUSA allowed Planned Parenthood to give to some of the girls. The material was very explicit & disturbing! i was wondering if anyone had heard anything about it & what ur thoughts are. I am a christian & my troop begins each meeting w/ prayer & I tell new parents that this is my beliefs & how I choose to run this troop if that makes u uncomfortable another troop may fit u better. but w/ this new info & GSUSA continuing to push the envelope further & further, I think I may be the one finding a new organization for my girls.
Sandy Says:
15 March 2010 at 6:59 pm.
The Original American Heritage Girls formation was by a couple Council Trainers and a few Girl Scout leaders that felt back in 1995 after the 1993 Girl Scout National Board Meeting made several major changes to the direction and emphasis placement of the organization.
Many delegates walked out of the meeting in protest.
There was a lawsuit brought up by Girl Scouts of the United States of America against the American Hertitage Girls, it was settled out of court, but many changed have been made to AHG corporate materials and web sites.
It shares many of the same ideals of the international Scouting/Guiding Movement, but does not seek to have formal relations with the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS). Others deemed that if GSUSA is to the Left of the center, then WAGGGS is even further to the Left.
Campfire Girls were started BEFORE Juliette Low returned from England in 1912, but in the early 1920s there were discussions held about merging the two orginizations. Mrs. Low was rather stubborn about a couple points and it fell apart, and soon, the eninty was even at the local levels.
For many years the Boy Scouts of America brought lawsuits against the Girl Scouts of the United States of America for the use of the term “Scouts” as well as references to quotes by Lord Robert Baden-Powell. Again these disputes filtered down to the local levels and there were often animosity between the organizations. Although all three groups had at the core the principles put forth by Lord B-P. In practice, we did not do so well.
Most of the worse of the animosities were put aside in the 1950s and 1960s, although by the end of the 1970s, all three groups faced mounting losses in active adult volunteers, monetary support from communities and declining memberships among teenagers.
Campfire Girls broke off their MOA with BSA and went co-ed, but never recovered. The BSA only recently has acknowedged Girl Scouts that are also members of a Venture crew may wear their highest earned awards.
Many Girl Scout troops that want to have a more traditional program walk a tight walk between what both organizations allow for activities. Some drop the affiation with GSUSA entirely.
Mary Says:
16 March 2010 at 11:52 am.
Not sure where Sandy thinks she received her information but the part about AHG being sued by GSUSA is absolutely false. I would love to see her documentation on this and about the MOA with Campfire and BSA.
Wow!
I’ve been involved with the American Heritage Girls for over a decade and KNOW this not to be true. This organization has been nothing but transparent since its formation. Please Sandy, either show your documentation of retract this false statement.
Peggy Says:
26 March 2010 at 8:50 pm.
Summer,
So sorry that you were have been disappointed by the GS Planned Parenthood meeting. Esp, when you are happy with your troop and things seem to be going well!
I am a leader in my local AHG troop and I have heard that the local GS troops are run independently and that many of them are run by Christian leaders and pray during their meetings. This is great! Glad some are still maintaining their principles. However, many are not.
I do no know precisely how GSUSA is run or set up and how it relates to the local troop structure. What I do know is that for many years, the national GS office has had self-proclaimed wiccans on the board. These are people that are making decisions for the GS. Planned parenthood is supported by the GS, including by their cookies sales. Granted, this is what I have “heard” and have no proof, but it would certainly be easily verifiable and GS has every right to support organizations they feel are in alignment with their goals and vision for their program. My thoughts are, so does the Boy Scouts and they have chosen to have a partnership with AHG.
If you want to find out more info on the GS, search for a journalist by the name of Jane Chastain. She has her own website. I do not believe she is a Christian, therefore is not merely supporting AHG because of her beliefs. She has some good articles (I felt they were, but others likely would disagree, as is their perogative.) Esp, the one titled, “Don’t Buy the Cookies!”
Summer, I pray that you and your daughter would have the wisdom to know what is the best decision for you and your troop, and you faith, should you desire to persue it.
AHG does not PREACH, as one poster suggested. We pray, we sometimes do Bible Studies on the Creed. These Bible studies are (at least I have tried to make mine) non-denominational.
There are 6 program emphasis, only one of which is spiritual growth. Each troop is different and will be different from year to year.
Contact any AHG leader and I bet they would be happy to talk to you about AHG! It is the fastest growing scouting organization in the country!
Maria Says:
1 April 2010 at 6:58 pm.
Why is it that so many people think others have “lost” their principles when others simply do not share their’s? I pray that all of you learn to take the limb from your own eyes before trying to remove the mote from someone elses’.
What does it mean to say that anyone can join a group and she doesn’t have to be “Christian” but she has to be willing to profess her faith through the Christian oath? There is something disturbing about that and I cannot decide if it is a basic lack in logical thought or something worse. How does that thought process teach tolerance?
The thing that disturbs me the most is how many “males” commented on how each started the AHG for his daughter. It gives me the heebie jeebies to read what these men have written and and I will continue to support GSUSA even more because I now know that the alternative is more patriarchal garbage championed by men and women who don’t see the issues inherent in the system.
Finally, it doesn’t matter what organization you belong to because it is the troop/group/church itself that makes or breaks the experience for everyone. If AHG makes you happy, then be there. More power to you in it, but please know that I haven’t lost my principals because I prefer GSUSA. I simply don’t hold the same principals as you do.
Kati Says:
5 April 2010 at 5:31 pm.
As a conservative, liturgical Lutheran (Lutheran Church Missouri Synod) I am simply not interested in the AHG. If I wanted my daughter to join a religious group I would find a specifically Lutheran one (the only one I know of for girls in the LCMS right now is Friends Into Serving Him, the teen group of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League). I find many pan-Christian groups to lean heavily towards Anabaptists and since Lutheran doctrinal purity is important to me I stay away. Instead I will be the Daisy Scout leader at my daughter’s Lutheran school next year when she starts school.
On a side note, I have found much of the promotion of AHG to be very mean-spirited towards Girl Scouts. I have looked at the Jane Chastain articles suggested by another poster and didn’t like what I saw. Chastain and others act as if GSUSA has betrayed its Christan roots when in fact it doesn’t really have Christian roots. I hope the best for AHG as our country’s girls (and boys, of course!) can use all of the support they can get. I just don’t understand why supporting the AHG requires putting down GSUSA.
Valerie Says:
8 April 2010 at 12:23 pm.
Susan, Do not let this document deture you from allowing your son a great learning expierience. I say this as a mother of 3 boys whom on discovering this piece of paper that is presented out of context, communicated my concern with BSA here was the responce, which eased my mind.
Dear Ms. ******,
Thank you for taking the time to write regarding your concerns with the association of the Boy Scouts of America and the American Heritage Girls. I hope that I can clarify with you exactly what the Memorandum of Mutual Support with AHG really means.
The Boy Scouts of America partners with many organizations in the delivery of the Scouting program. As a matter of fact, Scouting would not exist in its present form without these partnerships. The BSA does not own any Cub packs, Scout troops, Varsity teams, Venturing Crews, or Sea Scout ships. Chartered organizations have that ownership. Just as the LDS church, the United Methodist Christ, the Kiwanis Club, Rotary Clubs, Boy and Girls Clubs, YMCA and YWCA, etc. charter the Scouting program, so will the American Heritage Girls.
The Memorandum of Mutual Support simply formalizes a partnership with an organization that wishes to use the Scouting program as a means of serving all or part of its membership in their communities. In this case, the American Heritage Girls want to charter Venturing Crews as a way of serving their older girls(ages 14 and up). This partnership is the same as with any other organization that wishes to use Scouting. They agree to abide by the policies and guidelines of the BSA in the delivery of their Scouting program.
This partnership should not infer any disrespect for the Girl Scouts. The Girl Scouts have a program for older girls and to date, as far as I know, have not asked to use the Boy Scout program to serve any of its membership.
I hope that I’ve cleared up any misunderstanding you may have about this relationship. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
Charles H. Holmes
National Director
Community Alliances
Boy Scouts of America
Valerie Says:
8 April 2010 at 12:34 pm.
Summer,
This is what we recieved regarding Planned Parenthood. I would have hoped your council would have forwarded this to you, if not here is the statement we received.
GIRL SCOUT RESPONSE TO NEGATIVE ARTICLE
3/12/10
We have been alerted about negative article that is circulating in a national religious publication in which allegations were made about a United Nations meeting involving the World Association of Girl Scouts and Girl Guides.
GSUSA is aware of this situation and has assured us that this article is a complete misrepresentation of the facts. See below for Girl Scouts of Western Ohio and GSUSA response.
Girl Scouts of Western Ohio
“We are very disturbed and disappointed about the article. We have been assured by our national organization that this article is a gross misrepresentation of the facts. Girl Scouts of the USA is actively investigating the situation and will be preparing a Girl Scout position statement.
The mission of the Girl Scout program is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. It is not the role of Girl Scouting to take a position on issues such as abortion, birth control, sex education, etc. Our membership is a cross-section of America’s diversity with regard to religious opinions and practices. We believe these matters are best decided by girls and their families.
In some areas of the country, depending on community norms and in response to requests, Girl Scout troops or groups may hold discussions about human sexuality. In all instances, the topic is discussed from an informative rather than advocacy point of view. Participation in these discussions is totally optional, and each girl who participates must provide written consent from her parent or guardian.
Neither Girl Scouts of the USA nor Girl Scouts of Western Ohio has an affiliation with Planned Parenthood.
Any further inquiries can be directed to Roni Luckenbill, Chief Operating Officer.
3/15/10
Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA)
This week, an online publication by the Catholic Family and Human Rights Institute alleged that Girl Scouts, by participating in an event at the United Nations earlier this month, helped to distribute Planned Parenthood information as a part of the experience. We had adults and GSUSA media staff on the ground at the event and know this information to be false. We took steps to ensure that our fact-finding was comprehensive and complete, and we are communicating with you so that you have up-to-date information in the event you receive inquiries surrounding this issue.
Here are some top-line facts of the event in question:
On Wednesday, March 3, GSUSA, UNICEF’s Working Group on Girls, Girls Learn International, and The Grail jointly hosted a Young Women’s Caucus at the 54th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations. The Caucus was a group conversation conducted to formulate the Girls’ Statement—a document that seeks to draw the attention of world leaders to key issues affecting girls around the world.
The Girls Only Workshop that Girl Scouts of the USA co-sponsored at the event was supervised by adults and included no distribution of any brochure or collateral of any kind. The only participants were adults from GSUSA, Girls Learn International and The Grail, as well as 30-35 teenage girls. The event involved groups of girls, sitting in circles with adult supervision, developing language for the document. No materials were handed out. From the perspective of the GSUSA media staff member who attended the Caucus, there was no involvement whatsoever by Planned Parenthood.
The Girl Scout organization does not take a position on family planning. Our membership is a cross-section of America with regard to opinions on religious and social issues and practices. We believe these matters are best decided by girls and their families.
The Girl Scout organization has no affiliation with any political organization.
3/16/10
Update on Girl Scouts and the United Nations from GSUSA
Earlier this month, Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) was honored to attend and participate in the 54th Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations, where girls were encouraged to take action on global issues concerning women and girls. Our participation in that conference was recently the subject of numerous internet stories and blogs that are factually inaccurate and troubling. Here are the facts of that meeting:
The Girls Only Workshop was jointly hosted by Girl Scouts of the USA, UNICEF’s Working Group on Girls, Girls Learn International and The Grail. The meeting was only open to the girls and participating sponsors.
Only seven adults were in the room at the time of the meeting, each representing one of the sponsors of the event. No one from Catholic Family & Human Rights Institute was in the room to report on the event.
30 – 35 girls from across the world participated in this event. All teenagers.
The girls received a copy of the only document they were working on titled “The Girls’ Statement”. No other documents were given to the girls as part of this event.
The room in question was also used to host other events over the course of the multi-day conference. Prior to our girls entering the room, we did not “sanitize’ the room to ensure that no trash or other items were left behind. We did request that those not associated with the sponsors leave the room prior to our session.
The Girl Scouts of the USA was not contacted by Catholic Family & Human Rights Institute (C-FAM) regarding its initial story to discuss the facts of this event. Had they applied these basic journalistic standards, perhaps the true details of this event would have been reported.
Our Mission in Girl Scouting is to build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. We continue to be proud of our girls and look forward to showing the world what our girls can do. We thank everyone for their support of Girl Scouting.
3/18/10
The National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry has issued the following in support of Girl Scouts:
In the last several days NFCYM has received inquiries about a meeting at the United Nations with Girl Scouts of the USA and whether or not Girl Scouts of the USA distributed offensive material to girls. Our practice, as an organization, is to investigate such matters by going directly to the source involved. Therefore we contacted GSUSA and they have officially offered the statement below [statement is above as 3/16/10 update.] Please share this with those in your diocese who have voiced any concerns with you. This is a good reminder that at times we can be quick to render judgment without fact, that not all information offered on the Internet is accurate, and that our organizational integrity is at stake when we fail to properly investigate allegations.
stef Says:
22 April 2010 at 3:10 pm.
just want to make sure all the information here is complete: here’s the response from Austin Ruse of C-FAM about the evidence that the PP brochures were distributed at the UN Panel:
http://www.c-fam.org/publications/id.1592/pub_detail.asp
here is the witness’ account of what happened:
http://dailycaller.com/2010/03/24/salacious-scouts-make-new-sex-partners-and-keep-the-old/
lily Says:
31 July 2010 at 9:02 pm.
i have been in ahg for a little while, and yes i am a girl persipent of AHG! NO matter what anybody says AHG is awesome and anybody who reads this should join. It is a great time in christian fellowship!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Have a safe summer GOD BLESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Robert Says:
21 September 2010 at 9:21 am.
Finding a scouting organization for boys that isn’t run by bigots is nearly impossible in many places. BSA is often the only game in town and I’m neither willing to lie (or ask my boys to lie) about our family’s atheism nor to support, in any way, the confederacy of homophobes that has overtaken the BSA. This saddens me, as I fondly recall my scouting days, and would like my boys to have a similar experience. Fortunately, my family values are such that I have plenty of time with them on my own, in addition to a supportive community of friends with their own kids, and we can all work together to provide a positive scout-like experience for them in lieu of a functioning, inclusive, and intelligent scouting group for boys in my town. If only GSA accepted boys too!
Kerry Says:
21 October 2010 at 2:22 pm.
If you are looking for a true alternative to Girl Scouts, try Frontier Girls (www.frontiergirls.com). They are open to girls of all faiths (ages 5-18) and promote patriotism, good character, and a love of learning. With over 1200 badges in nine Areas of Discovery there is something for every girl. Frontier Girls also honors the requirements of other scouting organizations and many of their troops are partnered with local Boy Scout troops.
Higher awards include:
Liberty Award
Leadership Award
Fruit of the Spirit Award
Make a Difference Award
Servant’s Heart Award
Major in an Area of Discovery
Gem Award (highest award available at each age level)
Hilary Says:
21 October 2010 at 2:59 pm.
Read the booklet please, and also realize who the intended audience is. As a member of both GSUSA (and therefore WAGGGS) and BSA (and therefore WOSM) I am very proud of the global issues that WAGGGS and GSUSA addresses. If you look at the global perspective – BSA is the group that is behind (WOSM is a vastly different outlook on the world than BSA does. I love BSA, but should it completely cut its ties to WOSM and close its eyes to the larger picture of our world – I’m out!)
Shauna McClung Says:
25 October 2010 at 11:21 am.
I have a daughter who has been involved in AHG for nearly 4 years. I love having the alternative to Girls Scouts. GSA has gone out of their way to push liberal thinking to our nations daughters and I for one would not stand for it. The fact that they have a partnership with Planned Parenthood is enough to convince me. I have always tried to not “bash” GSA but the more I learn about their program the more I feel like these girls need rescued from it. I DARE parents to do their own research to find out the true agenda of that organization. Sadly, it is not the same organization that you were a part of as a little girl… I’m proud to have my family involved in AHG and BSA, both still teaching the conservative values of the past.
Hilary Says:
26 October 2010 at 12:59 pm.
Shauna, I’m glad you have found AHG and are happy with it. If it works for you and your daughters – thats great!
I know GSUSA isn’t the same organization today that it was when I was a little girl. And Boy Scouts isn’t the same as it was when my husband was a little boy (- its not even the same as it was when I was a youth in Venturing! And for BSA, more changes are on the way over the next 6 years.) AHG is changing as well (I remember when it started.) All organizations change – its a fact of life.
I completely agree that parents (and kids) need to do their own research on any organization that their child is (they are) a part of.
As far as political leanings – trust me, I’m quite conservative! Part of what I LOVE about Girl Scouts is that it is accepting to all beliefs, and it doesn’t endorse any one agenda. Some things are more liberal, and others more conservative – but its an organization with room for both. For me – that is important, as it teachers girls to work with people from all walks of life.
I am a management volunteer with Girl Scouts right now. I’ve served on national task groups as well as international work with WAGGGS. Girl Scouts isn’t trying to dictate morality to girls – its goal is to instill within them the curiosity to do their own research, form their own beliefs (through connecting with their family and community – including religious/spiritual beliefs), and act upon them in ways that the girl feels her world needs improving. Its very much the experience you make of it – and to be that its open to all walks of life. That works for me, and it works for my family. I don’t expect it to work for everyone, and that is why there are other groups out there. Americans have a constitutional right to peaceful assembly – and that means that I can have GSUSA while you can have AHG, and we can still be ok with one another. I don’t buy into the idea that one organization needs to ‘win’ over the other. Both can exist. I just ask that we teach our kids that there are other people in the world that don’t share the same values and beliefs as they do, and that is ok. The key to a better future isn’t convincing people who differ from you that they are wrong and you are right – but respecting everyone’s right to their beliefs and being able to work together still.
What do you say – lets agree to disagree and shake (virtual) hands on it?
Jennifer Johnson Says:
21 January 2011 at 1:07 pm.
Even if American Heritage Girls “allows” girls of any faith, it only allows Christian leaders, and has a Christian statement of faith. It is disingenuous to claim AHG is a “Judeo-Christian” organization when Jews are not permitted to be leaders.
I am a religious Jew who leads two Girl Scout troops. I feel strongly about being involved in scouting and have many talents and skills to bring to scout troops. I also have somewhat conservative values (by modern measures anyways), and I won’t say I’m 100% satisfied with the GS curriculum, and if AHG were more similar to BSA in its approach to religion, I would seriously consider affiliating with the organization?
But you know what? I’m banned from leading because I’m a Jew. Maybe my daughters aren’t, but *I* am. How would I explain to my daughters that Mommy isn’t allowed to lead because she’s a Jew?
Of course Christians are entitled to have their own groups, but please don’t pretend that AHG is truly inclusive. GSUSA has its problems, but at least I feel my faith respected as an adult leader, and GSUSA has never stopped me from running my troop with traditional scouting activities and values.
UncleSam Says:
18 February 2011 at 4:06 pm.
I am looking for a conservative scouting group for my daughter. I knew that GSUSA is a very liberal one, and I was really excited to find a link to American Heritage Girls website. However, I was disappointed when I realized that this AHG is pretty much a Christian organization (we are Jewish). Is anyone aware of any similar organizations, but without an emphasis on the religion?
Having my daughter join Girl Scouts is totally out of the question, with their links to radical feminists, Planned Parenthood etc. We totally share the same conservative values as AHG promotes, minus the “Jesus” part of it.
Kay Says:
22 February 2011 at 11:24 pm.
We were so unhappy with the Girl Scouts. The leader’s motto was “what happens in Girl Scouts stays in Girl Scouts” and there were some worrisome things happening without the parent’s consent. I have a son in Boy Scouts and, now, my daughter is in American Heritage Girls. Seriously, Girl Scouts really does not have much in common with Boy Scouts any more. My son’s troop and my daughter’s AHG troop work together and we have been very impressed. Girl Scouts is fine for those who are comfortable with the group. We were not…at all.
Adrian Carr Says:
10 March 2011 at 3:01 pm.
This makes me like the Boy Scouts of America even more than I did before, and that was already a lot! Go BSA!
Ann Says:
14 April 2011 at 2:25 am.
I am currently a GSUSA leader and am looking for something different for my daughter that lines up with our family’s core values. I have to say that at least AHG is very upfront with their belief system and the requirements to be a leader, unlike GSUSA, who sneaks it in through the backdoor. GS was founded by a Christian woman and she’s not the one who has changed their policies. How do we know that the direction that GS has taken would have been one that would that she would have wanted? GSUSA sneaks in Eastern Religion into their Agent of Change book, which was written by a New World compan. What is that teaching our girls? How is that honoring my family? I’m a christian, not a buddhist. The problem with GS is that they sneak this stuff into the girls’ literature. If you’re not paying attention, it can slip right by you. The AHG website is VERY CLEAR about their belief system, what troop leaders will be teaching, and what the girls will be doing. Just one click on their website to find out; Why AHG, and this is just one of the statements on that page: While AHG’s mission statement is to “Build women of integrity through service to God, family, community and country”, we recognize that our overall mission as part of God’s family is the Great Commission, as commanded by our Lord, Jesus Christ. No secret there about who they serve.
If you have different religious beliefs, then just don’t join AHG. No one is forcing your hand. Just like our family… we have a different belief system than GSUSA, so we’re looking for an alternative.
Liz Says:
9 May 2011 at 5:55 pm.
I have a son in boyscouts and we are very happy with it. They never caved into the secular humanist agenda that is very pervasive in our country. We have been looking for something for our girls and seem to have found it with American Heritage Girls. There was no way that we could have our girls in girl scouts. I have done a lot of research on the girls scouts and much of it is quite disturbing for me. I realize that this is based on my Catholic Christian beliefs. They are heavily linked to Planned Parenthood (the nations’s and the worlds leading abortion provider). The large percentage of their cookie sales goes towards this organization and other such groups as these. People can say what they want about the “local” chapters. The money still goes to the national council no matter what any local group will tell you. At the U.N. this past year the girl scouts of America had disgusting, graphic, and lude pamphlets and handouts distributed during the children’s summit. This was at the behest of guess who… Planned Parenthood. Anything beautiful young girls could ever know about sex, birth control (all in an explicit manner). They used a front group of girl scouts to do this. Read about it. It is absolutely true. And follow the paper trail. It will lead you to all the things that Girl Scouts of America is involved with. Their manual is disturbing enough for me. AHG, thank goodness, allows the local chapter to adopt the religious values of the sponsor. There is no sneakiness or back door policy. If something is truly of value, it will put itself in the light with no fear. There is nothing to hide. Just my two cents (and I am sure there are those of you that feel I valued my thoughts at too high a price). I really wish people would research things before making comments. If there are those that don’t think there is anything wrong with what the Girl Scouts stands for then bring it all out in the open. Start flaunting your relationship with these organizations. Please research your organization. I know that many moms and girls left girl scouts after the whole incident which blew wide open at the U.N. Truly many, many people are igorant of many of the things Girl Scouts does on a national level. And of course, there are those that subscribe to the things that Planned Parenthood and other abortion advocates do. So, GS will be no problem.
Like the last poster said, if you don’t like AHG, don’t join it. Freedom OF religion, not freedom FROM religion.
Sue Says:
9 August 2011 at 9:06 pm.
I was a former Girl Scout myself and came back after 20+ yrs because my daugther joined. My daugther needed a troop and I jumped to help. As of now I am no longer a leader, I have been stripped of ever holding a volunteer position higher than a 14. Why was a I stripped? Honestly, I have no idea! Just another BS reason. After rereading my leadership book I was given at counsil sponored class I found out that my council didn’t even follow their own rules or national rules about conflict and resultion. I wasn’t allowed to read what was said about me because of privacy reason (hmm I wonder if they ever hear of black sharpies for hiding emails addresss and names), I never got an official letter stating I was being removed from my leader position (when they took the troop and my position), never received an official letter of what exactly the problem was (just a general statement months later). I could go on but won’t! Because of how horribly I was treated by Girl Scouts and now feel this is not how Girl Scouts are suppose to treat each other I signed my daugther up for frontier girls. This program looks great! to me it’s girl scouts without the P.C., It’s what Girl Scouts should be about! Yes they have “god in the oath, but I think no matter what walk of life you come from we all believe in a higher power.
Mary Says:
27 August 2011 at 1:44 am.
You know i am sure that the american heritage girls have their own good things about their program . The only beef i have is the way they get their members by putting down the Girl Scouts! Our troop has been going strong and we practice our faith. I think they need to quit bashing the Girl Scouts who have been around for 100 years and have turned out some very strong women who are capable of making their own decisions without being told what to do.
Jen Says:
1 September 2011 at 10:08 pm.
There are several programs that actively promote alternative lifestyles and multi-culturalism. Finding one that doesn’t is certainly the exception. The great thing about America, is if you don’t like one club, find another, but don’t tread on anyone’s rights. Freedom, for all. I personally am thrilled to find a club that unabashedly stands on timeless principles of Christianity. BTW, the principles are: Compassion, helpfulness, honesty, loyalty, perseverance, purity, resourcefulness, respectful, responsible, and reverent. Even a good pagan appreciates those character attributes. Right?
GEN Says:
9 September 2011 at 1:55 pm.
The letter of mutual support is for Venturing crews. It basically says the the BSA and AHG will follows the rules of each other and that BSA would like AHG’s to girls to be venturers because each program has similair values. I support AHG program but I do not like the false marketing. I believe its a good program for girls but they misrepresent the agreement by tyring to encourage Cub Scouts. Cub Scouts and Boys Scouts is not CoEd. Venturing is CoEd. Scouting is challenge enough just getting volunteers. Running a program that keeps boys vested in the program is another. AHG leadership if your reading this please correct the false marketing. That is no honest.
Kitty Says:
13 September 2011 at 3:45 am.
Amazing how many stories pop up if you google this GSUSA and Planned Parenthood thing…..but none of them, though they have long passages quoting the “brochure,” actually have a picture of the “brochure.” It must be true, though, since I read it on the internet…..
Shannon Says:
13 October 2011 at 2:54 pm.
Frontier Girls is looking more promising all the time.
We were involved with AHG and came away with a very bitter taste in our mouths due to the local leaders non-support of the military families in the group. Even though they say they support our Military, we didn’t come away with that experience at all. It’s sweet to send off packages to deployed members but then allow girls to mistreat the girls who’s fathers our serving. On top of it my dd leader sent her a long nasty letter verbally attacking her and accusing her of automatically thinking no one wanted to be her friend. Husband, DD and I were convinced that it was a great program before joining and a good alternative to GS. We came away realizing that they were not as Christian as we had hoped for. Terrible experience! Money down the drain! Personally, from our experience, we have no respect for the AHG organization. Period!
Emily Says:
24 October 2011 at 8:50 pm.
I would like to share that anyone who has any knowledge of what it means to be a true Christian-knows that the 2 greatest ways to live and express our faith, is through love. Love for God, love for our neighbor! Thus the reason I chose to start an AHG troop over a Daisy Troop (when neither was available in our area). I found more freedom and acceptance for all through AHG! I was in Girl Scouts myself when I was young had a great experience but there was never any continuity as one leader would drop a troop, every mom that didn’t like the way something was going would start their own “closed” troop, etc. The structure of AHG accepts all girls (regardless of their faith and Christian leaders should love as Christ set the example to) whereas my research of the GSUSA program would actually teach against the values that my family held dear as my daughter progressed in the organization. Also, the organization of AHG troops actually fosters accountablity, acceptance, integrity, and continuity between the organizers, leadership, and families.
Dee Jackson Says:
25 November 2011 at 10:46 pm.
Hello,
My daughter has been in AHG for 3 months. I have never heard one negative thing mentioned about GS. I think that many people in the Girl Scout’s organization are paranoid because their numbers are going down. Don’t blame another organization for your downfall! I went with AHG because GS are just too liberal compared to when I was a little girl in the 70’s/80’s. I am a moderate person who does not like an agenda pushed on me. AHG is clear cut-it is a Christian based scout organization. If one is not Christian, why would they want to join? I would not try to join a Jewish club or Hindu organization-it would make no sense to do so, because I do not share those beliefs. But, just because AHG does not share those beliefs, does not mean that we bash others. It is always the Christian based organizations that are getting criticized and I am sick of hearing about it. If you don’t like AHG, join another organization. If you do, join AHG. Spend more time parenting, praying, and being an asset to the community and to the world. There are wars out there, people starving, mass poverty. Stop focusing on me, me, me and do something positive. The kids are not the problem, it is the bitter parents. One of my daughter’s best friend’s is a girl scout. Do we bash her or shun her? No… That is there thing, we do ours. Many of our friends do not attend church. Again, to each his own. Get over it, let’s embrace our differences, but it is okay to not be inclusive-everyone is not the same and does not believe the same!!!
Sharon Says:
27 November 2011 at 7:28 pm.
Page 72 ME-dia Journeys book for girls in grades 6-8. Girls are given a website to go to and learn how to advocate: http://www.mediamatters.com Look at the websites partners which are all abortion links. I bought the book at the Girl Scouts Great Rivers Council in Cincinnati, Ohio after I read the statement that there is no relationship with PP. To me it proves that there is a hidden agenda and that organization ’s embrace of gays as camp role models – one I also met personally at Camp Buttterworth 4years ago as she asked for marital advice for her and her “life partner” in front of my 4th grader (aside from all the other evidence since then) was enough for me to be glad I am no longer a part of that organization. Yes, I have turned to American Heritage Girls. I have 2 girls who love it. We are Catholics and worry free about where our money and time is being spent when it comes to the values AHG and BSA provides through their camp, service and religious medals that are part of their advancement requirements. AHG is AWESOME. I look forward to axding Venturing as soon as our members are old enough! We will have Stars and Stripes recipients in the next two years!
Sharon Says:
27 November 2011 at 7:31 pm.
Actually the site is www,womensmediacenter.com although that other website is in other Journey’s books for girls. sorry about that!
Mary Says:
21 January 2012 at 9:35 pm.
Dee i agree with you. I have been a girl scout leader for 23 years , my daughter was a girl scout , and she is a very confident, strong, and indepenent woman thanks a lot to this program. She was taught morals, values , and faith was strong within our Troop. Quit bashing Girl Scouts because you want to start another group, start it , go on with it, and leave the Girl Scouts Alone!!!
Mary Says:
22 January 2012 at 12:54 pm.
I said in my earlier posting that i agreed with Dee. Well i went back and looked at her whole post and i do not agree with her first words. Girl Scout Program has been bashed and i know this from personal experience, and we have had no problem with girls joining the girl scout troops at our place. As i said earlier there is room for both of the programs , but you don;t have to put down another program just to get girls for your program.
Mary W. Says:
25 January 2012 at 9:19 pm.
Oh, by the way, what my daughter was ridiculed about was her FAITH!! For an organization that touts “tolerance” it certainly does not.
Lu Ann Ferguson Says:
30 January 2012 at 3:37 pm.
I am absolutely stunned at the incapacity, or is it unwillingness, of so many folks to actually read what has been written! Even after the information was presented with official statements from GSUSA about the alleged PP and other affiliations, so many posters went right on posting about the ‘confirmed’ relationship and their objections to something that doesn’t exist. Yes, the GS literature will give links to all sorts of sources of information, which allows a girl to sort out, age-appropriately, of course, what all is ‘out there’ and decide for herself. Of course, a great fear of many parents is that their daughters may actually think for themselves and not swallow verbatim everything that is presented.
It is pretty offensive, possibly intentionally (?), when so many people, particularly posters here, insist on referring to the Girl Scouts as ‘Girl Scouts of America’ or ‘GSA,’ when the actual name is Girl Scouts of the USA. We are an organization within and recognized by the Congress of the USA, not of ‘America’ which includes two continents and doesn’t have a political body. Some Boy Scout organizations in other parts of the Americas find the USA’s BSA name to be offensive or ridiculous. This fact must be known by the BSA or my kids wouldn’t have been cautioned to say they were from the USA when attending World Jamborees.
I’m all for the AHG organization and wish them much success–as long as they don’t bash the GSUSA, which appears to me to be the main theme of their existence. Just because the GSUSA allows a girl to use a word other than “God” in the Promise is NOT a slap in the face to Christianity. It’s simply welcoming other girls within other faiths to use their word for the supreme being. “God” is an English language, or at least a modern language, invention, so if we must be purists, we should all be using Yahweh or some other ancient term.
Scout organizations in other parts of the Americas
