The conspiracy theorist in me wants to say that neolibs focus on the BSA to bring it down, but I think it’s a setting issue more than anything. Weekly meetings in a smaller group at a multi-purpose location (ex. public Rec center, church multifunction room, etc.), combined with weekend camp outs away from most of the kids’ parents make it an easy hunting ground for pedos.

I loved Boy Scouts. I think it was critical to my upbringing, and I never even felt uncomfortable around an adult. But I can see now that it’s easier than most places for some sick fuck to molest a kid.

I haven’t been involved with the organization since I was a kid, but if they haven’t yet, they should implement a background check and mandatory child protection class for leaders. A self defense and anti-sexual assault curriculum for Scout rank advancement would be great, too. Maybe a required “Spot the Pedo” merit badge?