James Turley, the Global Chairman & CEO of Ernst & Young, last night called on the Boy Scouts of America to drop its discriminatory policy against gay scouts and scout leaders.
Said Turley in a statement to CNBC:
“Ernst & Young is proud to have such a strong record in LGBT inclusiveness. As CEO, I know that having an inclusive culture produces the best results, is the right thing for our people and makes us a better organization. My experience has led me to believe that an inclusive environment is important throughout our society and I am proud to be a leader on this issue. I support the meaningful work of the Boy Scouts in preparing young people for adventure, leadership, learning and service, however the membership policy is not one I would personally endorse. As I have done in leading Ernst & Young to being a most inclusive organization, I intend to continue to work from within the BSA Board to actively encourage dialogue and sustainable progress.”
Jennifer Tyrrell, the Ohio den mother who was ousted from her position for being a lesbian, launched a petition campaign calling on Turley and another BSA Board Member —the CEO of AT&T, Randall Stephenson — to stand with her in calling for an end to the ban.
