There are the second and third generation Muslims who have lived their entire lives in the United States, all Muslims face a common challenge: encouraging their children to practice Islam in a society often dominated by Christianity and the mass media. The majority of Muslim children attend public schools and watch the same television shows and movies as other American children. This can make it d
ifficult for parents to teach their children about Islam and Muslim values. To respond to this challenge, mosques and Islamic centers across the country have started Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops that provide recreational programs for children while also incorporating elements of the Muslim faith. Muslim Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops belong to the national Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of America organizations but are sponsored by mosques and Islamic centers and have exclusively Muslim membership. The troops allow children to learn about their religion and culture and meet other kids from similar backgrounds. The troops mix traditional scout activities with ones that are designed specifically for Muslim children. "Muslim youngsters of Muslim Girl Scouts build character and skills for success in life. Girls develop qualities such as strong Islamic values, social conscience, and conviction about their own potential and self-worth. They learn to be loyal, honest, considerate, caring, unselfish, courageous, cooperative, responsible, courteous, and respectful Muslim leaders following the steps of our Great role-model our Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. By comparison, the Girl Scouts of America website states "Girls develop strong values, leadership skills, social conscience, and conviction about their own potential and self-worth that will serve them all their lives." These mission statements share many of the same elements, but Muslim scouts add the Islamic values and models to their scout programs. The Girl Scouts share many of the values of our religion, such as an emphasis on moral character, service and charity. We have seven Muslim Girl Scout troops at MAS Youth Center. The troops, which serves about 79 girls, meet on a regular basis to complete the Girl Scout Program and shape the Muslim identity. We share activities with many other troops here in our SU164 and GSNETX council to implemente the diversity and improve living in harmony between all American girls.
