These heroes have been beating the drum against the BSA's anti-gay policies. Let's hope their work will be recognized this week.
James Dale
When the BSA learned that Dale was a gay rights activist, it revoked the former Eagle Scout and assistant scoutmaster of his adult membership. Dale filed a lawsuit claiming that the organization violated New Jersey's anti-discrimination laws. While the New Jersey Supreme Court ruled in favor of Dale, the United States Supreme Court ruled against him. However, Dale led the charge for the BSA to change its ways.
Via: blog.nj.com
Jennifer Tyrrell
In April 2012, Tyrrell (pictured with Dianna Agron) was ousted as her son's Scout leader for being gay. Her story inspired over 350,000 Americans to sign a petition calling on the BSA to end its ban on gay members. Recently, she helped deliver 1.4 million signatures to the BSA's headquarters ahead of the organization's decision regarding its gay ban.
Image by Max Morse / Getty Images
Zach Wahls
Wahls first gained national attention when his pro-gay marriage testimony before Iowa House Judiciary Committee went viral.
Wahls, an Eagle Scout, turned his attention toward the Boy Scouts of America's anti-gay policies. In May 2012, while wearing his uniform, Wahls delivered 275,000 signatures of support of Tyrrell. A month later he cofounded Scouts For Equality.
Image by David Manning / Reuters
George Takei
After learning of Tyrrell's story, Takei became a vocal ally and rallied support for her cause. The TV icon and former Boy Scout joined Tyrrell at the 43rd Annual NYC Pride March in New York City.
Image by GLAAD
