Resource Roundup: How to support LGBTQ+ scouts and scouters

We talk a lot here about the “why” of diversity, equity and inclusion.

But today I want to dig a bit more into the “how” of inclusion. I'll admit upfront: I do not have all of the answers. But I do have access to a lot of resources, and I want to share them all with you.

So here’s a non-exhaustive list of the resources out there to help you turn your passion for DE&I into action:

• The BSA’s official DEI adult volunteer training: This 30-minute online course gives scouters some basic definitions and foundations for DEI concepts, along with tips on how to be an “upstander,” and how to address unconscious bias.
• The new Citizenship in Society merit badge: Despite its many shortcomings, leaders are using this badge to help their scouts understand DEI. Here’s the counselor guide, and here’s my article about experiences teaching the badge in the field.
• The BSA’s recent guide to inclusive summer camp: This blog post from the BSA gives 12 tips for making camp environments more welcoming to girls and women.
• Name-change resources for Scouting documents: Here is how scouters can request name changes on their eagle scout certificates, and how OA members can request name changes on Founder’s Award and Vigil Honor certificates.
• The BSA’s trove of information for serving scouts with disabilities: This page links to a bunch of great resources, including webinars, newsletters and guides for advancement.
• The LGBTQ+ Scouts and Allies Facebook page: This group is a wonderful community where you can post questions and receive answers from people who’ve handled similar challenges. The group also runs an LGBTQ+ 101 training course.
• My short guide on planning for Pride: This article gives a few suggestions and examples of what local councils do to celebrate LGBTQ+ Pride month in June.
• A council president’s playbook for DEI: This guest essay by Northeast Illinois Council president Ken Morrison gives a detailed outline of council-level actions to support DE&I.
• A guide to using Wood Badge tickets to support LGBTQ+ inclusion: My article from last year gives numerous examples of how adult leaders in the training program are taking action around LGBTQ+ inclusion in their local troops and councils.

What did I miss? Do you know about a great resource I neglected to include? Jump into the comments and let us know!