Res. No. 1573 Title Resolution calling upon the appropriate committee of the Council of the City of New York to hold hearings to investigate the nature and extent of the resources and special support the Boy Scouts of America receives from the City of New York and/or its uniformed forces, and explore whether such resources would be better spent on organizations that do not discriminate based on sexual orientation. Body By Council Members Lopez, Reed, Quinn, Freed, Henry, Linares, Miller and Perkins; also Council Members Eisland, Eldridge, Espada, Fisher, Leffler, Michels, Rivera and the Public Advocate (Mr.Green) Whereas, The City of New York recognizes the importance of equal opportunities for all New Yorkers and cherishes its historic role as a haven for the oppressed; and Whereas, Accordingly, it is the policy and law of the City of New York to protect individuals against discrimination based on their sexual orientation; and Whereas, It is the policy of the Boy Scouts of America (the "BSA") to bar openly gay youths and adults from membership and employment in the BSA; and Whereas, Gay youth, who are often targets of anti-gay harassment and brutality, need and deserve to participate in youth development programs; and Whereas, Non-gay youth also need to hear a message of respect for the rights of all people; and Whereas, The BSA's discriminatory policy is not in concert with the American ideals of diversity, inclusion and fairness; and Whereas, As a result of BSA's discriminatory policy, many local United Way organizations have decertified the BSA from eligibility for funding; and Whereas, The New York City Police Department (the "NYPD") currently operates various programs in partnership with the BSA; and Whereas, Other groups that do not have a policy of discriminating against gay and lesbian youth and adults, such as the National 4H Council, the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and Campfire Boys and Girls, receive no such support or assistance; and Whereas, The NYPD's continued partnership with and special support for the BSA sends the message to the children, parents and families of New York that it is acceptable to discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation; and Whereas, Such a message is dangerous and threatening not only to gays and lesbians but also to the very fabric of our society; now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the appropriate committee of the Council of the City of New York hold hearings to investigate the nature and extent of the resources and special support the Boy Scouts of America receive from the City of New York and/or its uniformed forces, and explore whether such resources would be better spent on organizations that do not discriminate based on sexual orientation. RN LS No. 3250 10/4/00