We can change the Boy Scouts, today

18-year-old Boy Scout Ryan Andresen and his mom Karen are interviewed by Anderson Cooper about the BSA's denial of Eagle Scout rank to him because he's gay, despite the fact that he had completed every requirement, via Towlroad.

As reported by NBC and confirmed on the Boy Scouts website, they are considering a policy change that would remove the national ban on gay Boy Scouts and leaders. The Board vote may be as soon as next week.

They are apparently actively soliciting feedback on the proposed policy, so let's give it to them.

The number to call is:

972-580-2330

It really only takes a few seconds. Apparently it's a dedicated line. They answer the phone with "Are you for or against changing the policy?"

You are FOR changing it.

I called and told them I spent two summers at Philmont Scout Ranch and was a member of the summer of 1983 Trail Crew. Scouting was an excellent and rewarding experience for me as a boy and a young man, and I believe the experience should be made available to anyone who wishes to be a part of it.

I'm aware, had I lived in these times, I might well have come out earlier, as the kids do these days, and found myself kicked out before I ever got to enjoy Philmont. This needs to stop.

I'm personally of the mind that this is not so much about it being a popular vote as they are looking for political cover from their fundamentalist Christian base, who are currently in throes of a total meltdown and rallying their base to call and oppose the change.

Via Good As You In my opinion, the Boy Scouts want to be able to say, "Well, we listened to the people and the vote was overwhelmingly in favor of changing the policy. Sorry Tony Perkins and Bryan Fischer, you lost." A similar dynamic played out with a New York state senator that was "on the fence" on marriage equality in 2011. So, give them their cover.

You can also send them feedback on Twitter, and Facebook, you can also email them at nationalsupportcenter@scouting.org

There are many people who have worked very, very hard for many years to bring us to this point, GLAAD, Zach "I have two moms" Wahls, the crew at Change.org. Let's bring this victory home for them. If you ever recced a diary or felt a moment's disgust at the BSA, now's the time to call, write or tell them which way to go, go towards inclusive policy.