Girl Scouts 'Sexualized' and 'Radical,' Says Indiana Lawmaker

By Sami K. Martin, Christian Post Reporter Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Indiana Representative Bob Morris has written a new letter in which he accuses the Girl Scouts of America of "sexualizing young girls" and being a "radicalized organization."

The Girl Scouts of America organization is celebrating 100 years since its establishment and most states are supporting a referendum to honor the group through local and state government. However, Bob Morris disagrees and has written a letter to fellow lawmakers urging them to not recognize the group.

"I did a small amount of web-based research, and what I found is disturbing," the letter begins. "The Girl Scouts of America and their worldwide partner, World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) have entered into a close strategic partnership with Planned Parenthood."

Morris continues: "Abundant evidence proves that the agenda of Planned Parenthood includes sexualizing young girls through the Girl Scouts, which is quickly becoming a tactical arm of Planned Parenthood."

Diane Tipton, president of the Girl Scout Council of the Nation's Capital has publicly stated, "The Girl Scouts organization does not take a position on abortion or birth control, and these topics are not part of the Girl Scout program or our materials. We believe these matters are best discussed by girls with their families."

Several years ago numerous churches began asking the Girl Scouts to leave their spaces, believing that the ties between Planned Parenthood and the Girl Scouts were too close. Yet many other churches have allowed the girls to continue meeting in their buildings. There is no federal mandate for churches and the Girl Scouts to separate; churches are left to decide for themselves whether to house the group or not.

One prominent organization, the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry, supports the Girl Scouts and executive director Robert McCarty has stated that his position is "that the only way you can advocate for the church's position is to be engaged in the dialogue."

Morris' letter concludes by saying, "As members of the Indiana House of Representatives, we must be wise before we use the credibility and respect of the 'Peoples' House' to extend legitimacy to a radicalized organization."

Morris is currently the only lawmaker on record against this public honor. The Girl Scouts have issued a statement reminding people of their values and stances on public issues, including Planned Parenthood and reproductive health.