Boy Scouts Open Membership To Transgender Boys

CHARLOTTE, NC — “It takes an adult to say step forward and say you’re important you’re welcomed and we’re behind you,” said Time Out Youth Executive Director, Rodney Tucker.

Rodney Tucker works with LGBT youth at Time Out Youth and says they applaud the Boy Scouts opening its program to transgender boys.

National Boy Scouts of America released a statement Tuesday saying, “we will accept and register youth in the Cub and Boy Scout programs based on the gender identity indicated on the application” versus on their birth certificate like before.

“Knowing that a group will make a public statement saying we’re welcoming and affirming will help out youth possibly want to participate in scouting activities,” said Tucker.

In 2013 the Boy Scouts lifted their ban on gays, a move which prompted many local churches to stop hosting Boy Scout troops.

Churches like Christ Covenant in Matthews who then joined a new group based on the Boy Scouts activities called Trail Life USA.

“We’re Bible based, and the Scripture is very clear in regards to how we’re to act in our sexuality,” said Troop Treasurer, Mark Palardy.

Palardy says Trail Life USA supported their values.

“In our particular group we’re going to be Christ centered and we’re going to teach the boys what the Bible says and we’re not going to be apologetic about that. We’re going to be loving,” said Palardy.

Tucker says he’s glad other groups are there for LGBT youth, and he hopes more organizations will be too.

“That’s why we go out to organizations and help them do trainings with their staff to understand the issue so all kids can participate and be safe,” said Tucker.