Page Created on February 07, 2008
Page Updated on May 09, 2008
GIRLS STATE INFORMATION
Plans are now being formulated for the Girls State programs that will be held during the summer of 1999. Over 21,000 high school seniors will be given a unique opportunity to leam citizenship by participating in the mechanisms of government under the guidance of experienced American Legion Auxiliary volunteers and professionals. Programs vary from state to state but the program primarily consists of;
organizing political parties
working "in committee"
electing party, local and state officials
debating bills
Americanism - respect for our Flag and Country
Girls State programs aid participants in developing leadership skills, confidence and poise that can be a lasting foundation for success in their personal professional lives."
Dianne McClung, 1998-99 National Girls State Chairman
The American Legion Auxiliary believes that training our youth about the basic ideals and principles of our system of government will help to ensure the survival of our republic. Through a unique citizenship training program, Auxiliary members teach the youth of our nation to understand, comprehend, and appreciate their roles as United States citizens. This program is called Girls State. Girls State began as one and two day sessions in the late 1930's and since 1948 has been a regular part of the Auxiliary's Americanism curriculum. The program has grown form a few hundred participants to nearly 25,000 Girls State delegates annually The Auxiliary has been recognized many times by Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania and the National Association of Secondary School Principles (NASSP) for outstanding Girls State and Girls Nation programs.
How are participants chosen?
American Legion Auxiliary Unit Girls State Chairmen evaluate potential leadership qualities of the delegates and alternates, assisted by high school principals and guidance counselors. Girls are eligible to attend if they meet the following criteria:
have completed their Junior year in high school
are interested in government and current events
have high moral character
possess strong leadership abilities
have an above average scholastic standing
have a desire to learn
These criteria may vary slightly from state to state The number of girls in each state is determined by the state Auxiliary's available resources.
What are the goals of the program?
to develop leadership and pride in American citizens
to educate delegates about our system of government
to instill in delegates a greater understanding of American traditions
to stimulate a desire to maintain our government processes
What does a typical session include?
The citizens are divided into two mythical political "parties" The parties do not reflect the two major political parties in today's system, but allow citizens to gain a special knowledge of how the system works. Elections are held to fill city and state positions Activities include legislative sessions, campaigning, party rallies, debating, and voting. The citizens also receive instruction in Parliamentary Procedure. This "hands on" method is unique and extremely effective. Girls State affords participants an opportunity to live together as self-governing citizens by informing them about the duties, privileges, rights and responsibilities of American citizenship and hopefully encourages their participation in the democratic process as they progress into adulthood. Additional activities include: journalism, singing, talent shows, field trips, group devotions, and patriotic ceremonies.
How are these programs funded?
The program is funded by each state's American Legion Auxiliary, with some additional support coming from other civic and non-profit organizations. The Girls Nation program is funded by the national organization of the Auxiliary, with some support from each participating state. Little or no expense is required of the citizen or her family.
Who are some past partidpants?
Jane Pauley - national news commentator
Ann Richards - former Governor of Texas
Jessica Mitchell - Vice President of Design / Director of Apparel for Liz Claibome
Janie Fricke -country western singer
Captain Michelle Johnson - first female Wing Commander U.S. Air Force Academy
Terri Utiey - former Miss U.S.A.
Sandra Dorsey-Blades - Marketing Manager ABC Daytime Television
There are many more exciting success stories, too numerous to list here.
Are scholarships available?
Girls State citizens have the opportunity to apply for financial assistance through the Samsung - American Legion Scholarship. Qualified students who are descendants of United States wartime veterans are evaluated on their academic records, community involvement, school activities and financial need. Various other scholarships and awards are given through individual Girls State programs.
For more information on the Girls State/Girls Nation programs,
contact the American Legion Auxiliary in your area or
Youth Programs Coordinator
American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters
777 North Meridian St., Third Floor
Indianapolis, IN 46204
