Brian Kerns: “the Boy Scouts of America is an institution that since 1910 has been creating leaders and instilling principles to guide…”

“the Boy Scouts of America is an institution that since 1910 has been creating leaders and instilling principles to guide young men down the right path as they form their basic values and grow into adults. The scout oath and the scout law serve as the foundation of this organization's beliefs, including duty to God and country. In June of 2000, the United States upheld the Boy Scouts' standing that as a private organization it has a right to set its own standards for membership. We know that some have tried to force their views on the Scouts and confuse the true mission of the scouting organization. This effort has taken place right here in our Nation's Capitol. Since the Supreme Court's ruling, the D.C. Human Rights Commission has ignored the decision and acted directly to the contrary. Mr. Chairman, I have had the opportunity to visit a variety of Boy Scout events in west central Indiana and I have talked with scouts; and I have had the honor of presenting the Eagle Scout Badge to a young man in Tippecanoe County. I have always been impressed by these young scouts. My son is a scout. I am impressed by their enthusiasm, their devotion, and their sense of pride in their communities. That is why I am here on the floor today to stand with the Boy Scouts of America and oppose the efforts to undermine this outstanding organization.”