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Boys Scouts Delay Decision on Allowing Gay Members

DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. - The expected vote from the Boy Scouts of America's national executive board on whether to lift its longstanding ban on gay scouts and leaders was postponed Wednesday in Irving, Texas.

The Boy Scouts of America's executive board has put off its decision on whether to lift a ban on gay members. Some Scouts are seen here at a Texas meeting.

The Boy Scouts of America's executive board has put off its decision on whether to lift a ban on gay members. Some Scouts are seen here at a Texas meeting.

Photo Credit: Flickr user Fort Meade

The Boy Scouts of America released a statement Wednesday saying that it will take action on the resolution at its national meeting in May to allow time for its thousands of local groups to offer input on what has become a controversial matter.

Rivertowns residents are split on the issue, with some feeling the Scouts should not be pressured into changing policy and others believing the bias against gay members or leaders is unfair. 

Ron Bosley, an Ardsley resident who was a Cub Scout in the Bronx during the 1970s, said the Scouts should not be pressured to change policy.

"It's not a public organization, so the Boy Scouts should not be forced to change their policy," Bosley said. "It is a tough thing. I don't think we should discriminate, but some parents might be uncomfortable with the issue."

Westchester-Putnam Council Scout Executive Marc Andreo could not say what lifting the ban would mean for the local troops until the council is notified of the discussion's outcome.

"We're aware of the ongoing discussion among the national leadership of the Boy Scouts of America regarding the national membership policy and are encouraged by the ongoing dialogue," Andreo wrote in an email.

"Our goal has always been to provide the best youth leadership and development program with the best volunteer leadership to as many young people as possible."

Dobbs Ferry's Sonya Terjanian commented on the Daily Voice Facebook site.

"Seems like a no-brainer to me. Yes," Terjanian said about whether the Scouts should open their doors to gays.

 

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