Scouting America might be the most patriotic organization in the U.S.
But we don’t endorse any one political party. You could say that rather than being pro-left or pro-right, Scouting America is pro-America.
The same applies to your pack, troop, post, ship or crew. You and your Scouts should Do Your Duty to Country but not by endorsing any one candidate.
During election years, the line between patriotism and political favoritism becomes thin, making it important to remind you of Scouting America’s official policy on Scout participation at political events.
Fact is, Scout units like the one pictured above are permitted to provide a color guard flag ceremony, in uniform, at political events. Troop 605 from Rocky River, Ohio, provided that service at a political event in Cleveland. (Nice job, Nick S., Tristan A., Grayson N. and Erik H.!) The troop served as color guard and then immediately left the stage and the premises. They provided a patriotic service and departed before things got political.
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions and Scouting America’s official answers:
Q: Could a pack, troop or crew provide a color guard flag ceremony for a candidate’s public speaking event or rally?
A: Yes. But Scouting America policy requires our adult and youth members in uniform to leave immediately after the presentation of colors and the Pledge of Allegiance. Should they want to stay they must do so as individuals, not Scouting representatives. That means they would have to change out of their uniforms.
Q: So Scouts and Scouters can’t stand on the platform for the remainder of the speech or presentation?
A: No. Scouting America’s guidelines on Scout participation at political events state that they should not remain on the speakers’ platform or in a conspicuous location where media could construe their presence as an endorsement or symbol of support.
Q: What about parades?
A: Scouts are allowed to participate in parades designed to recognize holidays or special occasions, such as Veterans Day or Memorial Day. They should not, however, participate in a parade designed to support one particular candidate for a political office, or any particular political movement, other than, as stated above, to provide a color guard flag ceremony. Should they want to stay and participate in the parade, they should change out of their uniforms and do it as individuals, not Scouting representatives.
Q: Why is this the rule?
A: The policy is meant to prevent someone from using our brand to convey support of a candidate or ideology. This prevents Scouts from being used by any party in campaign advertisements or materials.
Q: So then why is it OK to even present the colors or lead the Pledge of Allegiance at all?
A: Those are displays of loyalty to the nation, something Scouting America has always endorsed. Regardless of the outcome of the political race, the candidate and supporters pledge allegiance to the U.S. Because of this, it is always acceptable and deemed to be a part of the civic process. Also, this “service” is offered to any party, regardless of political affiliation.
Q: Can Scouts and Scouters pose for photos with political candidates at these events?
A: Technically yes, but proceed with caution. Photos of political candidates with Scouts in uniform (or any Scouting America marks and logos, for that matter) are not allowed to be used in political campaign materials of any kind. Scouts should not appear in photos with any campaign signs, stickers or paraphernalia that appears to endorse a candidate for office. It’s important to be aware of how easy it is for a photo to go “viral” these days and appear in a publication or website where you had no intention of it appearing. If you haven’t previously cleared any photo opportunity with a representative from your local council, it might be safer to say no until you get official permission.
Q: Can adult leaders or Venturers who are old enough vote in elections?
A: Not only can they — they should! The policy on Scout participation at political events isn’t meant to limit the freedom of thought or action of any official or member acting as an individual. Scouters and Venturers shouldn’t wear their uniform to the polling place, but they should vote for whichever candidate they prefer. That’s all part of being a good citizen — something Scouting America has taught for more than a century.
Q: What can Scout leaders do to support this policy?
A: Volunteers (and professionals) must be alert to situations that would imply that Scouting America favors one candidate or party over another. Strict observance of our long-standing policy against the active participation of uniformed Scouts and leaders in political events is mandatory.
Q: Does Scouting still teach patriotism and citizenship?
A: Yes! Scouting America teaches the ideals of patriotism and good citizenship as required to fulfill its purpose.
Photo via John K. Fabsits, director of field service for the Greater Cleveland Council.
Editor’s note: This post was originally posted in March 2012 and was updated in 2016, 2018, 2022 and 2024.
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