Italian Catholic Scouts Allow LGBT People to Work as Leaders

The Association of Italian Catholic Guides and Scouts (AGESCI) has adopted a document that allows LGBT people, including transgender individuals, to hold leadership and educational positions in the organization.

The document, titled “Gender identity and sexual and affective orientation”, states that sexual orientation and gender identity can no longer serve as a criterion for excluding adults from educational work. According to New Ways Ministry , the decision is the result of a dialogue process launched within the association in 2022. The text of the document emphasizes the need to overcome prejudices and promote inclusion.

LGBT scout leader Luisa Alioto, who is in a civil union with a woman, noted in an interview that the adoption of the new rules brings hope and confirms that LGBT people can serve openly in the church.

AGESCI’s decision provoked polarized reactions in society. The Italian LGBT organization Arcigay welcomed the new rules, calling them the end of years of discrimination. At the same time, the conservative group Pro Vita & Famiglia criticized the association, stating that this decision betrays the trust of families sending their children to a Catholic organization.