Girls in Boy Scouts: A Much Longer History Than You Thought!

As a woman, a Cubmaster, and a Scoutmaster who leads both boys and girls in the scouting program, I often find myself reflecting on the long and complex history of girls in scouting. Despite the progress we've made, I still encounter skepticism and resistance regarding the inclusion of girls in programs historically dominated by boys. It’s time to unpack this narrative and celebrate the vital role girls have played in scouting from its very inception.

The Birth of the Girl Guides

To understand the presence of girls in scouting, we need to start with the genesis of the Boy Scouts and the subsequent formation of the Girl Guides. The Boy Scouts movement began in the early 20th century, founded by Robert Baden-Powell in 1907. His vision was to foster outdoor skills, leadership, and community service among young boys, providing them with opportunities to learn essential life skills in a supportive environment. However, Baden-Powell’s sister, Agnes Baden-Powell, recognized that girls were equally eager for similar opportunities.

Agnes Baden-Powell created the Girl Guides in response to the growing interest among girls in the outdoor and community activities that her brother had established for boys with the Boy Scouts. Recognizing that girls were eager for similar opportunities for personal development, leadership, and adventure, she sought to create a program tailored to their needs.

Her motivation was fueled by the belief that girls should have a platform to learn essential life skills, engage in outdoor activities, and develop a sense of independence. In the early 20th century, societal expectations often limited girls' opportunities for exploration and personal growth. Agnes aimed to empower young girls by providing them with the same experiences that boys were enjoying, fostering confidence and resilience.

The establishment of the Girl Guides in 1910 allowed girls to engage in a structured program that emphasized teamwork, community service, and leadership, while also incorporating elements of fun and adventure. This initiative not only addressed the desires of girls at the time but also laid the foundation for a global movement that continues to inspire and empower young women today. Agnes Baden-Powell's vision and dedication were instrumental in ensuring that girls had the chance to thrive in a scouting environment, paving the way for future generations to explore their potential.

Girls in Scouting Internationally

While the Girl Guides took root in many countries, the situation was different in the United States. American scouting developed its own path. The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) was established in 1910, but there was no corresponding organization for girls until the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) was founded in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low. Low recognized the need for a structured program that would offer girls opportunities for adventure, leadership, and community service—similar to what boys were receiving in scouting.

Interestingly, the Girl Guides movement did not penetrate the U.S. as it did in other countries. Instead, the GSUSA focused on creating a distinctly American experience for girls, emphasizing independence and civic responsibility while providing a safe space for them to develop their skills. While both the Girl Scouts and the Girl Guides share foundational scouting principles, they diverged in their approaches and objectives.

The Distinction between Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts

It's essential to understand that the GSUSA is a separate organization from both the Boy Scouts and the Girl Guides. The Girl Scouts have always emphasized character development, community service, and personal growth. However, over time, they have faced criticism for not offering the same level of outdoor adventure and rugged activities that many boys enjoy in the BSA. This discrepancy has sparked discussions about gender roles and the expectations placed on young people in scouting.

From my perspective as a leader in the BSA working with both boys and girls, I recognize that the Girl Scouts offer valuable programs focused on empowerment and community service. Yet, many believe that they often fall short in providing the adventurous experiences that the Boy Scouts traditionally offer. This disparity is a point of frustration for those who advocate for equal access to the full range of scouting experiences, emphasizing that all youth should have the opportunity to explore the great outdoors, develop survival skills, and engage in challenging activities. 

I’ve often been asked, “Why would a girl join Boy Scouts when she could be a Girl Scout?” This question invites a deeper conversation about the unique opportunities scouting offers. I like to share the story of a first-grade girl who chose to leave her local Girl Scouts to join Cub Scouts. When asked why she made that decision, she confidently replied, “Because I don’t want to sell cookies. I want to learn how to build a fire.” How powerful is that answer? It encapsulates a desire for hands-on skills and adventure that many girls seek. Why shouldn’t our daughters have the chance to learn these invaluable skills alongside our sons? Scouting should be an inclusive environment where all youth can explore, grow, and thrive together.

The Inclusion of Girls and Women in Explorers

The Explorers program, which is part of the Boy Scouts of America, has a rich history of providing young people with opportunities to explore career paths, develop leadership skills, and engage in community service. Originally established in the 1950s as a program for boys, the Explorers focused on various fields, including law enforcement, fire services, and health care. However, as societal norms evolved and the call for gender inclusivity grew stronger, so too did the recognition of the valuable contributions girls and women could make within the program.

In the early 1970s, the Explorers began to transition towards inclusivity, allowing girls to join and participate in the program. This shift reflected broader movements toward gender equality and the desire to create environments where young women could pursue their interests and passions. By welcoming girls into the Explorers, the program acknowledged that young women also sought the same opportunities for personal growth and professional exploration that had been available to their male counterparts.

The formal inclusion of girls in the Explorers program marked a significant turning point. With this change, female explorers gained access to specialized training, mentorship, and networking opportunities that had previously been limited to boys. Programs were tailored to encourage young women to pursue careers in fields such as emergency services, law enforcement, and business, providing them with the tools and confidence needed to excel. As more girls joined, the Explorers not only enriched their own experiences but also contributed to a broader culture of inclusion and empowerment within scouting.

Today, the Explorers program continues to thrive as a co-ed initiative, embracing the diverse perspectives and talents that both girls and boys bring to the table. By fostering an environment where young people can collaborate and learn from each other, the Explorers embody the principles of teamwork, leadership, and community service that are at the heart of scouting. As we look to the future, the ongoing commitment to inclusivity in the Explorers program serves as a model for how all youth can benefit from shared experiences and opportunities, regardless of gender.

The Inclusion of Girls in the BSA

Fast forward to the recent developments in scouting history: girls were officially allowed to join Cub Scouts and the BSA in 2018, marking a pivotal shift towards inclusivity. In 2020, the BSA celebrated a historic milestone by recognizing the first female Eagle Scouts, marking a significant step toward gender inclusivity within the organization. On October 1, a total of 1,000 young women completed their Eagle Scout boards of review, becoming part of this inaugural class. Notable names include Grace Steele, Emma McNair, Maddie McGowan, and Gina Williams, among others. Each of these girls demonstrated exceptional leadership through unique Eagle projects that contributed positively to their communities. For instance, Grace created a recycling initiative, while others focused on environmental and educational improvements. This recognition not only underscores the dedication of these young women but also serves as an inspiration for future generations of girls in scouting, highlighting that they can thrive in the same rigorous programs as boys and paving the way for more inclusive experiences within scouting.

As I’ve watched my daughter thrive in the program alongside my son, I am continually reminded of the profound impact that inclusion has on their scouting experiences. This integration not only enriches their individual journeys but also mirrors the realities of modern society, where gender should not dictate the opportunities available to youth. Both my children benefit from a shared environment that fosters teamwork, resilience, and leadership skills, regardless of gender. It’s heartening to see them engage in activities together, learning from one another and breaking down stereotypes in the process. This dynamic creates a more comprehensive understanding of collaboration and respect—qualities that will serve them well in their future endeavors. By embracing inclusivity, we prepare all scouts to navigate a diverse world, equipping them with the tools to become empathetic leaders and community members. Ultimately, this shift in scouting reflects a broader societal change, affirming that every child deserves the chance to explore their potential without the limitations of outdated norms.

The Name Change to Scouting America

The announcement that the BSA would change its name to “Scouting America” sparked considerable debate among members and the public alike. Critics argue that this change dilutes the organization’s rich history, suggesting that it overlooks the traditional roots established by its founders. They fear that such a shift might diminish the legacy built over the last century. Conversely, many view the name change as a necessary evolution that reflects the contemporary values of inclusivity and diversity. It is crucial to remember that girls have been part of the scouting ethos since 1910, when Robert Baden-Powell’s sister, Agnes Baden-Powell, formed the Girl Guides. Their contributions, whether through family involvement or community service, have always been integral to the spirit of scouting. This name change symbolizes a significant step toward fully embracing inclusivity and recognizing the diverse contributions of all scouts—regardless of gender. It reflects an understanding that scouting is not solely about tradition; it’s about adapting to the needs and realities of today’s youth. By rebranding as “Scouting America,” the organization acknowledges its commitment to fostering a welcoming environment where all young people can thrive, learn, and grow together, ensuring that the principles of scouting resonate with every scout.

Final Thoughts

As I engage with parents, leaders, and citizens who express dissatisfaction with the inclusion of girls in scouting, I urge them to consider the long-standing history of girls’ involvement in the movement. From Agnes Baden-Powell's pioneering vision in 1910, when she founded the Girl Guides to empower girls through outdoor adventure and leadership, to the recent policy changes within the BSA that officially welcomed girls into their ranks, the narrative of girls in scouting is not a new chapter; it’s an essential extension of the original story.

This rich history highlights that girls have always sought the same opportunities for growth, community engagement, and skill development as boys. By recognizing this legacy, we can appreciate that inclusion is not merely a recent trend but a natural progression toward equality in scouting. The ability for girls to participate in scouting reflects our evolving understanding of what it means to be a leader, a team player, and a responsible citizen. Instead of viewing this change as a departure from tradition, it should be embraced as a continuation of the values that scouting has always championed—adventure, camaraderie, and personal growth for all youth

My hope is that as we move forward, we can celebrate this shared legacy and focus on fostering an environment where all scouts—regardless of gender—can thrive together. Let’s embrace the spirit of scouting that has always encouraged youth to explore, lead, and serve. After all, our ultimate goal is to prepare the next generation of leaders, adventurers, and community members, and that is best achieved together.