Scouting America, a national youth organization, has dropped diversity initiatives from its National Jamboree event in West Virginia after facing pressure from the Pentagon. The changes reflect shifts made by Scouting America since it became a target of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over what he calls “woke” policies.

National Jamboree Changes

The National Jamboree, which ends Friday, has eliminated dedicated spaces for gay youth, women, and scouts of color. Some scouts who had planned to attend the event said they backed out because Scouting America scrapped the inclusion initiatives it previously celebrated.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth threatened to end the Pentagon’s century-old partnership with Scouting America if it did not make changes, including refocusing away from diversity initiatives. Scouting America, previously known as Boy Scouts of America, rebranded in 2024 to emphasize inclusion and the growing number of girls in the scouting ranks.

Scout Reactions

Some scouts have expressed disappointment over the changes. John Andrew Segebarth, a 21-year-old college student and Eagle Scout, said the removal of inclusive spaces is a sharp reversal for Scouting America. Layla Grace, a 21-year-old assistant scoutmaster, decided to attend the jamboree and volunteer at an area dedicated to addressing issues such as mental health, food security, and education.

Scouting America remains “fully committed to welcoming and serving all youth,” according to a spokesperson, but did not address questions about the changes to the jamboree.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.