CA Sen. Boxer, Lt. Gov. Newsom, and 32 state legislators rally behind gay Scout denied Eagle Award

The campaign in support of Ryan Andresen, a gay Boy Scout who was kicked out of his local troop and denied his Eagle Scout Award because of his sexual orientation, has gained significant momentum with several high-profile political leaders speaking out in support of Ryan and his effort to achieve the Boy Scouts’ highest rank.

Ryan’s mother, Karen Andresen, whose petition on Change.org has attracted more than 400,000 signatures urging the Boy Scouts not to deny Ryan his Eagle Award, has recently received the public support of U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, California Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom, and 32 California state legislators who have joined a sign-on letter started by State Senator Leland Yee.

U.S. Senator, Barbara Boxer, wrote to Ryan saying:

I recently read about your story and wanted to commend you for your 12 years of service to your community, as well as your determination to stand up for yourself and others against bullying and discrimination. Your perseverance to raise awareness against bullying is commendable. I admire your courage to stand up for who you are, as well as the bravery you have demonstrated in the face of intolerance.

Article adapted by ProudParenting.com from original press release