Girl Scout troops have become a vehicle for Muslims to promote their faith in an American style, according to a recent investigation by independent journalist Natalie Winters. Winters found Girl Scout troops operated out of mosques from coast to coast, with specific awards created for a “Girl Scout of the Islamic Faith.” Winters notes that the awards were created by the National Islamic Committee on Girl Scouting (NICGS), rather than Girl Scouts USA (GSUSA), indicating the extent to which the Girl Scouts have allowed their brand to be Islamized.
The NICGS has created four award ribbons Girl Scouts can achieve that advertise a “Girl Scout of the Islamic Faith.” These awards are named “Bismillah,” “In the Name of Allah,” “Qurat ul A’in,” and “Muslimeen.” The NIGCS says the awards emphasize the “theory and practice of Islam.” The NIGCS also offers a Hajj patch and “Hajj Passport” for Girl Scouts who complete the required Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca.
Separately, a Girl Scout Bronze Award offers an “All about Islam” patch, requiring scouts to complete the five pillars of Islam. Older girls can perform optional fasts without food or water.