Pentagon Threatens Scouting America Funding Over DEI Policies

Defense Department Demands 'Core Value Reforms' from Youth Organization

The Pentagon is threatening to withdraw crucial military support from Scouting America unless the organization abandons its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies and implements what defense officials call 'common-sense, core value reforms.' The ultimatum comes as the two organizations are in the final stages of negotiating their longstanding partnership agreement.

Executive Order Conflict

Defense Department spokesman Sean Parnell issued a stark warning on social media platform X, stating that Scouting America has 'lost its way' by embracing DEI initiatives and gender-fluid ideological stances. 'For more than a decade, the leadership of Scouting America has made decisions that run counter to the values of this administration and the Department of War, including embracing diversity and inclusion and other ideological stances on social justice and gender fluidity. This is unacceptable,' Parnell wrote.

The conflict stems from a January 2025 executive order by President Donald Trump that ended DEI preferences in federal contracting. The Pentagon now insists that Scouting America must align with this directive to continue receiving military support.

Century-Old Partnership at Risk

The relationship between the U.S. military and Scouting America dates back more than 100 years. According to military reports, the Pentagon provides critical support for the organization's National Jamboree, which attracts up to 20,000 scouts every four years. The military also allows scout troops to meet on military installations worldwide and provides medical and logistical assistance for major scouting events.

Scouting America, formerly known as the Boy Scouts of America, has undergone significant transformation in recent years. The organization began admitting girls in 2018, welcomed transgender youth and openly gay members, and rebranded as Scouting America in February 2025 to reflect its commitment to inclusivity. The organization serves over 1 million youth, including nearly 200,000 female participants, according to Wikipedia data.

'They Have Little Time Left'

Parnell's statement concluded with a clear deadline: 'They have little time left and we are watching them.' The Pentagon indicated that funding for programs like the National Jamboree could continue only if the organization 'quickly implements the reforms based on common sense and core values.'

This isn't the first time the Trump administration has targeted Scouting America. In November, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth criticized the organization in a speech, claiming it had strayed from its mission to cultivate 'masculine values.'

Scouting America's Response

Despite the pressure, Scouting America has responded positively to the Pentagon's announcement. The organization emphasized its 116-year history of promoting American ideals and service. 'We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Department of Defense and appreciate their support of our mission to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices,' a spokesperson told The Hill.

The organization's evolution reflects broader societal changes, but now faces a critical test as it navigates political pressures while maintaining its commitment to serving all American youth. The outcome of these negotiations could reshape one of America's oldest youth organizations and its relationship with the military establishment.