Last month, section chiefs from around the country attended the National Planning Meeting, which included the Campfire Chat, where our leaders unveiled new policies and updates. Read on for updates regarding membership eligibility, American Indian Activities (AIA), and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
Membership Eligibility:
The National Order of the Arrow Committee has modified the 24-month membership eligibility window established, temporarily, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As of January 1, 2023, individuals newly selected as candidates for membership in the Order of the Arrow retain that eligibility for a period of 18 months from the date of their selection. After that period, individuals may be considered again for selection if they continue to fulfill the eligibility requirements. This change does not apply retroactively. Accordingly, candidates selected for membership prior to January 1, 2023 continue to have 24 months to seal their membership. For the latest membership information, please visit oa-bsa.org/about/membership.
American Indian Activities:
The national committee is actively reviewing the Order’s policy concerning AIA in conjunction with the leadership of the BSA. We hope to land on the right decision regarding the future of OA involvement with AIA in the next few months. For current AIA policy, please visit the Inductions Portal at oa-bsa.org/resources/inductions.
DEI Initiatives:
The Order of the Arrow remains dedicated to the principles iterated by the admonition that binds us together. To that effect, the national committee has adopted the Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This statement envisions an Order where “people with different identities, backgrounds, and beliefs are present, respected, valued, and celebrated; empathy is practiced; grace is offered when people inevitably make mistakes; everyone feels responsible for helping others succeed; all are loved unconditionally.” To read about this vision, emphasized leadership capabilities, priorities for the next three years, and what you can do, visit oa-bsa.org/DEI.
These policy updates and changes will create a growing, stronger, and more diverse movement of Arrowmen across the nation!