Perhaps known, or unbeknownst to many Native tribes and communities, the Boy Scouts of America have been using an extensive amount of Native-themed adornments, Native-inspired regalia, and even full-fledged headdress in boy scout ceremonies, gatherings, and outings since the early 1900s.
Ironically, the 1900s were rife with Indian children being taken from their homes and were systematically forced to assimilate into white culture while attending religious organization run boarding schools. While Native American children in these schools were forced to stop speaking their languages and had to learn English while threatened with severe punishments, the early boy scouts were assimilating the Native culture that was so frowned upon.
"One of the obvious uses of American Indian culture within the Boy Scouts is the Order of the Arrow (OA). The OA puts a strong emphasis on the use of Native American customs. For example, members of the Order of the Arrow will participate in traditional Indian dances and ceremonies. The purpose is to not make fun of these dances and ceremonies but to instill the strong trait of brotherhood." cites Anderson.
However, advocates from Indian Country disagree.
“The Boys Scouts have long been one of the worst culprits that have made cultural appropriation, stereotypes, misrepresentation and the blatant disregard of Native peoples a hallmark of its institution and practices. It’s leadership, members and supporters have insisted their egregious practices and behavior are about “honoring Native Americans.” They have been repeatedly asked to cease the practices of appropriation and misrepresentation by Native peoples because they’re offensive and cause harm.”
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