NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Carly Rae Jepsen is canceling her
performance at the national Boy Scouts of America Jamboree because of
the organization's exclusion of gays.
Jepsen, the Canadian pop singer best known for the inescapable hit "Call Me Maybe," made the announcement Tuesday on Twitter.
"I
always have and will continue to support the LGBT community on a global
level," she wrote, "... and stay informed on the ever changing
landscape in the ongoing battle for gay rights in this country and
across the globe."
Rock band Train also has taken a stand, but
pursued a different tack in a post on its website Friday. The group
asked the BSA to reconsider its policy rather than immediately pull out
of the July gathering in West Virginia. The event, held once every four
years, is expected to draw more than 45,000 scouts and adults.
Members
of Train said Friday in a message on their website that they were
unaware of the policy barring gay scouts and adult leaders from
participating in the organization before agreeing to perform.
"Train
strongly opposes any kind of policy that questions the equality of any
American citizen," the statement said. "We have always seen the BSA as a
great and noble organization. We look forward to participating in the
Jamboree this summer, as long as they make the right decision before
then."
Deron Smith, publicity director for the BSA, says the organization is moving forward with plans for the Jamboree.
"We
appreciate everyone's right to express an opinion and remain focused on
delivering a great Jamboree program for our Scouts," Smith wrote in an
email. Smith was unaware of any other performers scheduled to
participate in the event.
The BSA's policy has drawn attention
before and gay rights organizations hailed Jepsen and members of Train
for taking a stand and helping to bring the issue back into the public
debate.
"Carly Rae Jepsen and Train's decisions not only send the
right message to the BSA, but remind LGBT young people that they are
supported and accepted," said Rich Ferraro, GLAAD's vice president of
communications, in a statement.
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