2020 was a watershed moment in the fight for racial justice and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Girl Scouts stand for inclusion and as our founder Juliette Gordon Low said in 1912, “I have something for ALL the girls of America.”
Racism is counter to the values of Girl Scouts, and although we have acted to combat racism throughout our history, we know we have enormous work ahead of us to build a truly anti-racist organization. We prioritized these efforts in 2020, both on an individual level and within every aspect of Girl Scouting. We pledge to never stop working to create the just and equitable world that every girl, and all of us, deserve.
Throughout our organization’s history, Girl Scouts has encouraged girls to participate in actions and activities they are passionate about, whatever any affiliated social causes may be. As the preeminent leadership development organization for girls, we feel it is our duty to encourage girls to participate in, rather than shy away from, issues they care about. We support the girl who supports a cause, and are committed to providing program activities that will help girls become civically engaged.
Girl Scouts Celebrate Juneteenth
In celebration of Juneteenth, GSNNJ Girl Scout Junior Troop 97398 of Rutherford organized a virtual demonstration by calling on their sister Girl Scouts to show love, respect, and support by asking girls to take a selfie in uniform with a sign supporting racial justice and posting it on social media. The girls were determined to live by example and apply the Girl Scout Law to their lives.
Girl Scout Juneteenth Pledge
"Today, we celebrate Black culture and recognise Freedom Day - Juneteenth - as a reminder to create lasting change"
Girl Scouts March for Racial Justice
Millions of Americans took to the streets in 2020 to march for racial justice and Girl Scouts were no exception. Girls from across our council took a stand for this important social issue and joined in their communities’ efforts to fight racism.
Voter Girl Project 2020
Voter Girl Project 2020 was truly a milestone event. Not only did girls celebrate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment and Women’s Right to Vote, but 2020’s event took place during a monumental presidential election cycle. Girl Scouts gathered throughout New Jersey on March 7, 2020, to participate in the Voter Girl Project – a program presented by the League of Women Voters and Girl Scout councils to enable girls of all Girl Scout levels to earn citizenship badges after learning about civic engagement and advocacy.
The girls learned about the history of women’s suffrage and leadership in our country and discovered how they are a part of that story today. Discussions included the importance of getting involved, speaking out, and voting on issues girls feel strongly about. Guest speakers included Passaic County Clerk Danielle Ireland-Imhof and Assemblywoman Lisa Swain.
