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Equity and Social Justice

“I will do my best to be honest and fair…” It’s the first line of the Girl Scout Law and has been an important component of the Girl Scout program since its founding. Recent events have brought to light how unfairly some girls and families have been treated in America and across the globe for centuries.

This page is a resource to help girls, families, and troop leaders navigate equity and social justice issues.

Racism goes against the values of Girl Scouts, and although we have acted to counter racism throughout our history, we know we have enormous work ahead of us to build a truly anti-racist organization. We are prioritizing these efforts, both on an individual level and within every aspect of Girl Scouting. Girl Scouts of the USA and all 111 Girl Scout councils are engaging in challenging discussions, bringing forward previously unheard voices, acting with integrity, and learning from any missteps. We pledge to never stop working to create the just and equitable world that every girl, and all of us, deserve. You're invited to stand with us against racism.

Girl Scout Programs
Badges and Patches

Citizenship and Democracy badges: In-depth explorations of how government works for every program level (filter by Topic > Citizenship). Learn more about how these badges help girls see the impact of their actions.

Suffrage Centennial patch: A century after the ratification of the 19th Amendment, girls are invited to explore the history of women’s right to vote.

Girl Scout Ranger 19th Amendment patch: Enhance your understanding of the significance of the 19th Amendment, celebrate the advances resulting from the suffrage movement, and get to know key historical figures.

World Thinking Day activity guide: Celebrate the diversity, equity, and inclusion reflected in our global movement.

Initiatives

G.I.R.L. Agenda: A nonpartisan initiative to inspire, prepare, and mobilize girls and those who care about them to lead positive change through civic action.

Pledge Against Racism: Girl Scouts commits to taking action to support Black girls, their families, and their communities, and we reiterate that we do not tolerate racial injustice

Promote the Vote National Service Project: Though some girls may be too young to cast a ballot, they can still mobilize their communities to take action like a Girl Scout.

More Resources
Local Resources

Women’s Museum of California: Write a thank-you note to the women who fought for our right to vote, learn about women in history through a scavenger hunt, explore a “History of Suffrage in the U.S.” digital exhibit, and more.

A Note from Carol: GSSD CEO Carol Dedrich talks about discussing and taking action against racism with your girl.

National Resources

Civic Engagement: Get the tools girls and adults need to take civic action now (from GSUSA).

What Girl Scouts Stands For: Read a message from former GSUSA CEO Sylvia Acevedo.

 

Resources for Troop Leaders and Parents
Introductory Resources
Intermediate Resources
Facilitating Complex Conversations
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