Yes! GSSN welcomes and celebrates young people and adults who
identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning,
Intersex, Asexual/Agender, Two-Spirited, and more (LGBTQIA+).
A person’s gender identity (how they express and identify) and
sexual orientation (who they love) are two different things and are
never up for debate. This means we never force anyone to disclose or
discuss these parts of their identity. At the same time, we make room
for children, adults and families to have the choice and opportunity
to share their full selves with pride. LGBTQIA+ identified youth in
our programs are to receive equal access and opportunity to
participate in every way without being stigmatized or othered.
In the event that a Girl Scout does not feel included in their
troop, the Girl Scout’s parent or caregiver should reach out to a GSSN
staff member. GSSN staff will work with the Girl Scout and family to
find a troop that welcomes and celebrates their identity, or they may
choose to continue to participate in Girl Scouts as an Independently
Registered Girl (IRG), also known as a “Juliette”.
Please see Human Rights Campaign’s Direct
Online and Phone Support Services for LGBTQ Youth.