Re "Despite protests, Boy Scouts reaffirms ban on gays" (Tribune, July 18):

Given that Mormons are the biggest supporters of the Boy Scouts (in troops and money), and that Catholics are a big supporter, too, it's no surprise that the Boy Scouts reaffirmed its ban of gays from Scouting. Let's call the policy what it is: bigotry.

Bigot: "a person who is obstinately or intolerantly devoted to his or her own opinions and prejudices; especially: one who regards or treats the members of a group … with hatred and intolerance."

The Boy Scouts and Mormons are no different than social organizations in the past that banned blacks, Jews and women.

It would be one thing to allow religiously sponsored troops to prohibit gays, while allowing other troops to accept them. It's quite another to arrogantly impose your beliefs on non-believers. As with Proposition 8 and gay marriage, it's that intolerant arrogance of making others practice your beliefs that makes Mormons disliked in America.

Henry Denton

Charleston