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The integrated ethnic
diversity of the Richfield area includes significant populations of African
American, Asian, Hispanic, Caucasian, Native American/Alaskan, and Native
Hawaiian/Pacific Island descendants. Correspondingly, nearly all the major
religious faiths are represented in our community – including Christian, Jewish,
Islam, Buddhist, Hindu and others. Pack 042 is meeting the challenge of serving
the youth of these diverse communities though a variety of programs and
educating current Pack 042 Scouts and families through the
Northern Star Council Diversity Award
Program.
Nearly a
century ago, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) was founded on the premise of
teaching boys moral and ethical values through an outdoor program that
challenges them and teaches them respect for nature, one another, and
themselves. Scouting has always represented the best in community, leadership,
and service.
The Boy
Scouts of America has selected its leaders using the highest standards because
strong leaders and positive role models are so important to the healthy
development of youth. Today, the organization still stands firm that their
leaders exemplify the values outlined in the Scout Oath and Law.
On June
28, 2000, the United States Supreme Court reaffirmed the Boy Scouts of America's
standing as a private organization with the right to set its own membership and
leadership standards.
The BSA
respects the rights of people and groups who hold values that differ from those
encompassed in the Scout Oath and Law, and the BSA makes no effort to deny the
rights of those whose views differ to hold their attitudes or opinions.
Scouts
come from all walks of life and are exposed to diversity in Scouting that they
may not otherwise experience. The Boy Scouts of America aims to allow youth to
live and learn as children and enjoy Scouting without immersing them in the
politics of the day.
We hope
that our supporters will continue to value the Boy Scouts of America's respect
for diversity and the positive impact Scouting has on young people's lives. We
realize that not every individual nor organization subscribes to the same
beliefs that the BSA does, but we hope that all Americans can be as respectful
of our beliefs as we are of theirs and support the overall good Scouting does in
American communities.
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