The Boy Scouts of America, now rebranded as Scouting America, are auctioning off a collection of over 300 works of art to help compensate tens of thousands of people who were sexually abused while in scouting. The collection includes works by renowned artist Norman Rockwell, with the total estimated value of nearly $60 million. This move is part of the organization’s bankruptcy plan, which was filed in 2020 to address the sexual abuse claims. Over 82,000 people filed claims during the bankruptcy case, with more than 64,000 asserting their claims in detail. Survivors will receive compensation based on the severity of the abuse they suffered and how much money the trust collects.
The survivors of sexual abuse in the Boy Scouts are finally receiving recognition and compensation after years of waiting. The bankruptcy plan allows for multiple distributions of funds as money becomes available, and nearly 6,000 survivors have elected to receive one-time payments of $3,500. The survivors played a significant role in strengthening the organization’s commitments to youth protection before approving the bankruptcy plan. Despite the financial compensation, survivors like Tom Krumins emphasize the importance of ensuring that such abuse never happens again. The process has been agonizing for many survivors, as it only resolves the bankruptcy and does not erase the pain caused by the abuse.
The collection of artwork being auctioned off showcases the deep integration of art into the Boy Scouts’ organizational culture. Many works by Norman Rockwell, who worked with the organization’s magazine Boys’ Life for many years, are featured in the collection. Other artists like J.C. Leyendecker also contributed to the Scouts’ visual imagery, creating iconic paintings that were used on magazine covers and scouting materials. The art collection will be sold by Heritage Auctions in Dallas over the coming years, with over two dozen works going on the block. The artists involved in creating these pieces played a vital role in shaping the culture and vision of the Boy Scouts throughout history.
The rebranding of the Boy Scouts of America to Scouting America reflects the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and signals a new era of diversity within the group. The decision to welcome girls, as well as gay youth and leaders, marks a significant shift in the organization’s culture. The proceeds from the art auction, along with the sale of properties like campgrounds, will go towards compensating survivors of sexual abuse. Despite the financial aspect of the compensation, survivors like Doug Kennedy emphasize that the process does not resolve the emotional pain and trauma they have experienced. The focus remains on creating a safe and secure environment for future generations of scouts to prevent similar instances of abuse.
