Girl Guides in Canada have decided to ditch the name "Brownies" because it's been deemed too racially divisive.
Photo by cottonbro studio on PexelsThe decision came after input from current and former members, who said that the previous name "Brownies" was too offensive.
Instead girls aged seven and eight will be called "Embers", and the term will be phased in over the next few months.
It was chosen over "Comets" in an online vote.
The group said in November that the old name had caused "harm" to some minority members, and kept girls from joining.
The release added that applications have increased since November, after the group's decision to become more inclusive for their daughters.
The GGC says that the new name should be used immediately, but it will take until September for it to be fully adopted in merchandise and gear.
The Brownies were originally formed in England in 1914 as girls sought their own version of the Scouts.
They were originally called the Rosebuds, and today members earn badges for activities like crime prevention and science investigation.
Girl Guides aim to empower young women aged 5-17.
They provide opportunity to girls to try new experiences, challenge themselves and build their confidence, all within a safe environment.
