Local Scout leaders approve or accept possibility of gays in scouting

For Chris Dixon, the Boy Scouts’ policy barring participation by gays makes an unnecessary distinction.

“That’s Mother Nature so you can’t hide it. If you’re a scout, you’re a scout,” he said. “I hope it goes through.”

Dixon was referring to news that broke Tuesday of a push to change the Scouts’ policy barring participation by gays. Those familiar with the organization’s internal discussions say the policy — which has withstood a Supreme Court challenge — may be rescinded to allow individual chapters latitude in deciding what sexual orientation requirements they want to put on their troop.

With nearly 50 years as a scout and 17 as a scoutmaster, Dixon says it’s about time.