Girl Scouts denies teaching religion amid scrutiny of Muslim faith awards, mosque visits
The Girls Scouts of the USA says independent faith groups run optional Islamic programs after reports alleged mosque-based troops taught prayer and hijab lessons.
TL;DR
- Girl Scouts of the USA denies teaching religion and states that outside faith organizations independently run optional programs.
- GSUSA's "My Promise, My Faith" pin allows girls to connect the Girl Scout Law with their own faith.
- Faith-specific patches are developed by independent faith organizations, not GSUSA, and participation is optional.
- GSUSA materials acknowledge approved religious-recognition programs created by faith groups, including Islamic recognitions.
- Critics, such as Moms for Liberty, argue that faith-specific badges may exclude girls of different faiths.
- Reports cited programs in various states involving local troops, councils, and faith organizations.
- American Heritage Girls, a Christian scouting organization, emphasizes its upfront disclosure of Christ-centered programming.