The changes at the National Jamboree, which ends Friday, reflect shifts made by Scouting America since the organization became a target of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over what he calls “woke” policies.
Hegseth threatened to end the Pentagon's century-old partnership with Scouting America if it did not make changes including refocusing away from diversity initiatives.
This year, about 15,000 scouts, leaders and volunteers from across the country are attending the 10-day event in the mountains of West Virginia. In addition to activities including mountain biking and kayaking, the gathering hosts leadership programs and educational sessions.
The Pentagon made a deal with Scouting America in February but the two sides have given conflicting accounts of that agreement.
The six-page document spells out ways the Pentagon will monitor compliance, including that officials from each organization would have “periodic touchpoints and meet” as needed.
The scouts and the military have long held close ties; The military provides logistical support for the jamboree and some scout troops meet on or near bases.
Asked about the implementation and monitoring of the deal, a Pentagon spokesperson referred to previous comments by Hegseth.
In February, Hegseth posted a video that said his department would “vigorously review” changes made by Scouting America and would cease the military’s longtime support of the organization if it failed to comply by late August.
