WASHINGTON, D.C. Interfaith Alliance Executive Director Rabbi Jack Moline released the following statement following remarks by Boy Scouts President Robert Gates recommending an end to the ban on gay leaders in the Scouts.

“I applaud Secretary Gates’ call today to end the ban on gay leaders in the Boy Scouts of America. The work Secretary Gates has done to make the Boy Scouts more inclusive builds on his considerable efforts to open the U.S. military to gays and lesbians as Secretary of Defense and is a testament to his character and commitment to equality. I welcome, as well, Secretary Gates’ desire to respect religious communities as he seeks this policy change.

“As a private, voluntary organization, the Boy Scouts of America is entitled to craft its own membership policies. However, I would urge Secretary Gates to use his considerable moral leadership to strive for full inclusion in troops across America. For many, the Boy Scouts are synonymous with service to community and respect for all – to create system where some scouts are allowed to grow up into leaders at any troop, while others are barred from those troops that refuse to accept them for who they are or whom they love is not worthy of this organization’s great name.”


Interfaith Alliance is a network of people of diverse faiths and beliefs from across the country working together to build a resilient democracy and fulfill America’s promise of religious freedom and civil rights not just for some, but for all. We mobilize powerful coalitions to challenge Christian nationalism and religious extremism, while fostering a better understanding of the healthy boundaries between religion and government. We advocate at all levels of government for an equitable and just America where the freedoms of belief and religious practice are protected, and where all persons are treated with dignity and have the opportunity to thrive. For more information visit interfaithalliance.org.