St. Louis, Missouri – During the usual cookie season fundraiser, a troop of Girl Scouts in St. Louis, Missouri, decided to veer off the traditional path by making and selling bracelets instead. The eight girls of Troop 149 chose to donate the proceeds to the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund, given their concerns for the ongoing violence in Gaza, where many children have been tragically affected.
Troop leader Nawal Abuhamdeh supported the girls’ initiative, recognizing their passion for the cause. However, their plans faced opposition from the parent chapter, Girl Scouts of eastern Missouri, who stated that the organization does not engage in political or partisan activities. This response surprised Abuhamdeh, especially after noting other Girl Scout troops’ support for humanitarian causes, such as aiding families in Ukraine.
Given the ultimatum to stop selling the bracelets or disband from the Girl Scouts, Abuhamdeh left the decision to the girls, who unanimously chose to disband in order to stand by their values and noble causes. However, the community in St. Louis rallied around them, raising over $20,000 for Palestinian children through the PCRF by making thousands of bracelets.
The incident gained attention from the Council on American Islamic Relations (Cair), prompting a response from the Girl Scouts’ chief executive, Bonnie Barczykowski. Acknowledging the need for greater clarity and education regarding fundraising policies, Barczykowski expressed a commitment to advancing inclusion and anti-racism, working to prevent similar incidents in the future.
While the disbanded Troop 149 has not received a direct apology, they found solace in their community’s support and solidarity. Abuhamdeh expressed that the experience empowered the girls to find their voice and stand up for what they believe in. Ultimately, despite the challenges faced, the girls’ determination to use their voices for good serves as a lasting lesson and inspiration for the future.