[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 13]
[Senate]
[Page 18113]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                         BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

  Mr. THURMOND. Mr. President, yesterday, the House of Representatives 
voted on a bill which would have repealed the Federal charter of the 
Boy Scouts of America. Fortunately, the bill received a mere twelve 
votes. However, even the consideration of such an absurd proposal 
concerns me tremendously.
  I recognize that traditional values and institutions which uphold 
those values are under attack and considered out of date by some 
elements of our society. Unfortunately, the Boy Scouts of America is 
one of many fine organizations being challenged.
  The Boy Scouts embody the beliefs on which the very foundation of 
this country was built. Since its inception in the early 1900s, this 
fine American institution has taught the young men of our Country about 
the importance of doing one's duty to God, of serving others, and of 
being a responsible citizen, and has in turn provided this Nation with 
countless distinguished leaders.
  I find it disappointing that at a time when the United States is in 
critical need of organizations that teach our youth character and 
integrity, some would choose to attack the Boy Scouts of America. Few 
fail to recognize the hurdles today's adolescents face. Confronted by 
obstacles that were unimaginable in my day, Boy Scouts provides young 
people with the knowledge, self confidence and willpower to do what is 
right in difficult situations.
  I commend the Boys Scouts of America for its dedication to our youth, 
and reaffirm my commitment to its preservation.

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