Source: The San Diego Union-Tribune
http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/metro/20060511-9999-7m11scouts.html
On May 11, 2006 The San Diego Union-Tribune reported, "A devout Muslim, Lallia Allali was drawn to the Girl Scouts because it shares many of the values of her religion, such as an emphasis on moral character, service and charity. That's why about two years ago, Allali founded three Muslim Girl Scout troops at the Islamic Center of San Diego, the largest mosque in San Diego County, where her husband is the imam. The troops, which serve about 50 girls, are among a growing number of Muslim Girl and Boy Scout troops sprouting up across the nation. A Muslim Cub Scout troop of about 25 boys also meets at the Islamic Center in Clairemont. 'In Girl Scouts, it teaches you to be confident. In Islam, it says you should be confident and never give up,' said Layla Elmi, 10, who attends school at the Islamic Center. 'You can be friends with people of any skin color or religion. In Islam, it's the same thing.' The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts have for years been reaching out to Muslims and other religious groups, working with them to offer patches or medals tailored to their faiths. The Girl Scouts has made it known that the word 'God' in its oath can be substituted with Allah (God in Arabic) or other words to fit one's beliefs."