Scouts and Politics

The following statement comes from a Council website. It seemed a timely thing to pass along.

I found the picture above on the web. The name on the sign isn’t important, we all need to read, understand and practice this policy: Boy Scouts of America policy prohibits Scouts from participating in political activities.

Uniformed unit members and leaders may participate in flag ceremonies at political events and may lead the Pledge of Allegiance; however, they should retire after the ceremony and not remain on the speakers’ platform or in a conspicuous location where television viewers could construe their presence as an endorsement or symbol of support. In addition, photos of candidates or Scouts in uniform or BSA marks and logos are not allowed in political campaign materials of any kind.

Leaders must be alert to situations that would imply that the BSA favors one candidate over another.

Strict observance of our long-standing policy against the active participation of uniformed Scouts and leaders in political events is mandatory.