Scoutmaster Minute: Embrace Diversity!

We invite all people to get involved in Scouting, mindful of the importance of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic status, religion, physical ability and political belief. Scouts foster a culture of diversity and inclusion that makes it enriching to participate, volunteer and work in the Scouting program.

The intent of the global Scouting movement is to create a positive and welcoming environment for all, valuing backgrounds and experiences that will grow and strengthen our movement and continue to make us a valued contributor to the communities we serve.

On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King delivered the "I Have A Dream" speech to over 250,000 civil rights supporters from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. He calls for an end to racism in the United States and called for civil and economic rights. King described his dreams of freedom and equality arising from a land of slavery and hatred.

Although a lot has changed since 1963, Martin Luther King's message is still relevant today. His message reminds us that tolerance, diversity, and inclusion are values that are critical to success - and these values need to be supported and defended in order to build a better and stronger community.

The attached video is Martin Luther King's complete un-edited speech:

Yours in Scouting,
Mr. Cooper