Why James Dale is back in court—30 years later
The memorandum of understanding between Scouting America and the DoD has eluded public view. James Dale is trying to change that.
Mike De Socio
Hi, I’m Mike De Socio. I’m an independent journalist based in upstate New York, telling stories about the change-makers shaping our world.
Newsletter
Inside my wild and wonderful adventures in Italy
When I started the Morally Straight newsletter about five years ago, I had no idea I’d be where I am now. If you haven’t heard: These days, I’m living a deliciously wholesome and horny life in Italy! That’s right: The Boy Scout author is now, somewhat
Newsletter
Scouting America cancels LGBTQ+ inclusion space planned for summer Jamboree
As part of Scouting America’s very public battle with Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, the organization has quietly scrapped plans for LGBTQ+ and other community spaces at this summer’s National Jamboree. Catherine Peluso, who until recently was the Jamboree Belonging Lead, told me that the Jamboree Community Spaces
Newsletter
A post-Hegseth reading list: The best analysis about what comes next for Scouting
Here’s some of the best writing and analysis to help you make sense of the news.
Tim Curran, the first gay man to sue Scouting America in 1981, is now a scout leader
He didn’t rejoin to make a point, or tie up some grand story. He became a volunteer because he wants to help local scouts.
Follow my new Italian life (and newsletter)
I moved to Italy, and I’m writing about it in a new publication called Finocchio.
Join me in conversation with James Dale and Tim Curran
Hello, dear readers. I’m popping back into your inbox to let you know about a very special event coming up in a couple of weeks. On June 11 at 5:30 p.m., I’ll be joining two of the people I profile in my book, James Dale and
Newsletter
A tribute to Randy Cline
I saw in Randy a scouter who held the same convictions that I did, and who fought to make space in the organization for people like me.
Newsletter
The book about trans youth that you need to read
"American Teenager" gives us a stunning, moving look into the lives of eight transgender, nonbinary, and genderfluid teens and their families across the country.
Newsletter
The future of this newsletter
Here's what you can expect from me going forward.
Newsletter
Dispatch from book tour
The past 10 days have overflowed with love and joy.
Newsletter
The 'Morally Straight' book is out today!
Pick up your copy wherever books are sold!