American Cultures

The American Cultures badge helps to expose Scouts to the wonder that is the USA. While some Scouts live in diverse parts of society, many of us here on the West Sound live in homogenous communities. This badge is a fun and interesting way to take your Scouts out of their comfort zones.

Here are some sample groups you might choose (remember that one of the three choices is your own background):
“racial, cultural, national, or ethnic backgrounds”
Black, Hispanic, Nordic, American Indian, Irish, Italian, Mexican, Northern European
Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Catholic, LDS (Mormon)
You may be able to successfully present other categories of people as sub-cultures. Ask your counselor about groups such as Homeschoolers, Foster Parents, Adoptive Families, Veterans, Environmentalists.

requirement 1 – cultural differences

The Admiral Theater in Bremerton often has performing arts programs from different communities.

requirement 3 – religious and social differences

Here are some choices that other Scouts have reported upon (these are open to all):
Jewish (Reformed) – Congregation Beth-Hatikvah, Bremerton. Small, warm, and welcoming group. Read one Scout’s account here.
Catholic (Roman) – Our Lady Star of the Sea, Bremerton. Traditional Roman Catholic mass, and a monthly Latin Mass! (Many Scouts from Troops 1501/220 attend Star of the Sea, and would be happy to accompany other Scouts.)
Christian (Non-denominational) – Christ the Rock Community Church, Port Orchard.
Christian (Conservative) – South Kitsap Alliance Church. Strict interpretation of Scripture; tend to wear head-coverings, homeschool, and have larger families.

There is a larger list here.

requirement 4 – american contributions

Requirement 4 reads: Tell about a contribution made to our country by three different people each from a different racial, ethnic, or religious background. Here is a compilation one Scout sent in, to help you get started.

1. stacking badges elective | Boy Scouts on the Kitsap Peninsula Says:
   November 8th, 2009 at 7:11 am

   [...] American Cultures – If you choose American Indians as one of your three, you can do the Indian Lore badge simultaneously. [...]

2. american heritage | Boy Scouts on the Kitsap Peninsula Says:
   December 5th, 2009 at 9:45 am

   [...] American Heroes page is one Scout’s resources for the American Cultures badge. It’s a good place to start to find the political leader and private citizen needed to [...]