We were approached with an offer to possibly run a press-release about this project in the newspaper and was told this could be a big, big story if Scout's project was accepted by the BSA.
On so many levels, that's a wonderful idea and could maybe give the leverage needed to start the club. It could send the message, too, that not all straight and/or LDS people are afraid of LGBT, and that there is a need for the LDS and LGBTQ communities to reach out to each other in peace, love, and acceptance where no one is trying to change anyone. It may even send a message to the BSA that there's room for everyone.
But, media coverage could also backfire. My child's future, safety, and mental well-being need more consideration as well as not jeopardizing the success of starting a GSA for our youth. Hubby and I have decided to remove the project from Scout. He has always had a great attitude about doing it, but as his parents, we need to protect him from any media (he's only 13). He and his sister still want to help out in other ways.
The quest for a GSA will continue! It is now my "eagle" project. After educating myself and meeting the beautiful angels of the LGBTQ community as well as their supportive families, my heart is too involved to turn away now. About 2-7% of our kiddos will be born LGBT. Statistically speaking, about 20-70 youth out of a student body of 1000 will be LGBT. What types of messages will they be raised hearing about themselves and internalize?
I hope for them a place where they feel accepted and a place for allies and potential-allies learn to break stereotypes and other misunderstandings and to stick up for anyone who is bullied. I want this to be a group full of brave leaders who choose the right over fear.
