The following must be turned into the Council Registrar for Advancement Committee Approval:
Criteria for being approved a MB counselor for Citizenship in Society.
- Send in Certificate of completion for Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion Training https://training.scouting.org/courses/SCO_1800
- Send in complete MB Counselor form (if you are not already a registered Merit Badge Counselor you must also attach a completed adult application)
- Sign and date Letter of Affirmation
- Citizenship in Society Merit Badge Requirements for counselors Diversity Equity Inclusion | Boy Scouts of America (scouting.org)
- All candidates will receive a letter from the Advancement Committee upon Approval.
Send all the required information to Velma at velma.laco@scouting.org
the newest merit badge for youth in the Scouts BSA program.
“The mission of the Boy Scouts of America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law,” said Roger Mosby, president and chief executive officer of The Boy Scouts of America. “This merit badge aligns with both the Scout Oath and Scout Law, which encourage Scouts to respect the beliefs of others, to be kind and courteous, and to help other people at all times.”
The Citizenship in Society merit badge is the latest initiative as part of BSA’s ongoing commitment to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion. Developed by BSA’s Office of Diversity and Youth Development Office, with input from a dedicated group of Scouting volunteers, BSA youth and professional staff, the merit badge pairs Scouts with merit badge counselors who will help guide Scouts on their journey of self-discovery and facilitate discussions as Scouts seek to further understand the diverse world we live in.
“The Citizenship in Society merit badge is an important initiative to help Scouts learn about the diverse identities we each possess, understand different perspectives and experiences, and promote good citizenship in society,” said Elizabeth Ramirez-Washka, chief diversity officer and vice president of diversity & inclusion, Boy Scouts of America.
The new merit badge complements existing merit badges, such as the American Cultures, Citizenship in the Community, Disability Awareness and American Heritage merit badges, which require Scouts to learn and grow their understanding of diverse perspectives and spur positive action.
“As part of earning the Citizenship in Society merit badge, I learned that it’s important to understand different opinions and perspectives to become a good leader so that you’re prepared to handle any situation that comes up,” said Maya, a 15-year-old Scout who participated in the pilot program. “I also enjoyed getting to discuss diversity and inclusion topics with my friends in Scouting, as it felt like a safe environment to be open and honest about these topics.”
For more information on the Citizenship in Society merit badge, please visit www.scouting.org/dei.
