Girl Scouts incorporate Islamic religious programs in various U.S. states

Girl Scout troops in several U.S. states are incorporating Islamic religious instruction and activities into their programming. According to reporting by Natalie Winters, mosque-based programs in states including California, Illinois, New York, Virginia, and Maryland have included activities such as Islamic prayer, Quranic instruction, Ramadan observances, and hijab requirements.

Some programs involve non-Muslim scouts visiting mosques to observe salah (ritual prayer) and learn about Islamic practices. The SALAM Islamic Center in Sacramento, California, operates a program that requires youth groups to follow the mosque’s religious principles. Documentation shows that the Girl Scouts Heart of Central California has integrated such activities, including Ramadan sleepovers, as early as 2009.

The Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) officially recognizes religious award programs operated by outside religious organizations. The organization’s faith materials identify the Islamic Committee on Girl Scouting and note the availability of “Girl Scouts of the Islamic Faith” religious recognition awards and medals.