The Girl Scouts of the USA has responded to criticism regarding Islamic-themed badges, asserting its long-standing commitment to welcoming girls from all religious backgrounds. The organization stated that it does not teach religion and that badges beyond its core "My Promise, My Faith" pin are developed and administered by independent faith organizations.
Conservative commentator Natalie Winters had raised concerns about badges related to Islamic practices, such as participating in Ramadan and Hajj, shared via its affiliated group Girl Scouts of the Islamic Faith. Winters questioned the extent of Islamic programming within the Girl Scouts' banner, sharing images of these badges and pins. In response, the Girl Scouts called such claims "misinformation," emphasizing their inclusive approach.
"For more than a century, we've welcomed girls of every faith and background," a statement from the Girl Scouts of the USA read. The organization clarified that while it encourages girls to grow spiritually, national religious groups are responsible for their own programs, which may include insignia that can be worn on the official uniform. These participating groups include Roman Catholic, Christian, Jewish, Lutheran, Mormon, Presbyterian, Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim organizations.
Winters, however, disputed the Girl Scouts' response, describing it as a "word game." She maintained that her reporting accurately identified GSUSA-approved Islamic religious recognitions and medals developed by outside faith groups, and that the Girl Scouts had not identified any factual inaccuracies in her work.
Winters further stated that the Girl Scouts "smeared" her reporting as "misinformation" without refuting specific claims. She suggested that the organization should offer badges for studying women's treatment under Islamist rule and the history of Islamic conquest. When asked about other religions having badges, Winters argued that pointing to Christian badges was "lazy whataboutism," asserting that "Christianity shaped America; Islam did not."
The Girl Scouts' constitution states that its members are "united by a belief in God" and that the "motivating force in Girl Scouting is a spiritual one." The organization has expressed pride in every girl, underscoring its commitment to inclusivity across diverse faiths and backgrounds.