What is Girls State?
The Alaska Girls State is a mythical 51st state where, for one week, participants or “citizens”, organize their own city, and state governments. They choose their own officials in accordance with regular election procedures. They learn the duties of the various city and state offices. They introduce and debate their own bills in a mock legislature. The program concludes with the inauguration of officials that the Girls State Citizens have voted into the office.
What is the Purpose of Girls State?
The purpose of American Legion Auxiliary Alaska Girls State is to educate our young women in the duties, privileges, rights and responsibilities of American citizenship. Its purpose is to awaken within the youth of our nation a sincere conviction that a well-informed, intelligent, participating citizenry is most vitally needed to protect and preserve our American institutions and our American democracy. In Girls State, the young citizens “learn by doing.”
The Program
Every hour of the day is carefully planned so that each girl will have a definite and integral part in the function of Girls State and the opportunity of learning for herself that her government is what she makes it. The entire program is non-partisan and free from propaganda. The political parties are purely mythical for the sole purpose of enabling the girls to set up their own city, county, and state governments, using the existing constitution and laws as guides. The citizens are divided into two political parties, the “Nationalist” and Federalist.”
Who can participate in Alaska Girls State?
Girls State citizens are made up of excellent high school students from across the state. Girls are selected to participate based on nominations by their own high school faculty or staff. Citizens must be sponsored by abn American Legion Auxiliary Unit. Eligibility is limited to any girl in her junior - or third - year of any Alaska senior high school (going into Senior year for 2011-2012), whether public, private or homeschooled. Fundamental qualifications of all nominees are demonstrated accomplishments of leadership, citizenship and character in their schools and community.
Why Attend Girls State-
As a leader and active member of your student body we know there are many opportunities available to you, and lots of activities pulling at your time. Here are just a few reasons to spend a week with us.
At Girls State you will meet and live with approximately 40-60 other outstanding young ladies from around Alaska. All participants are selected by the American Legion Auxiliary and are leaders in their own right and a willingness to learn. You will experience an unparalleled learning experience; have opportunities to challenge yourself as you never thought possible and leave with friendships and contacts that will last a lifetime. A diverse staff (all volunteers) will lead you in fun, hands-on learning experiences that will give you a new appreciation for living as a citizen of Alaska and the United States.
If you are a direct descendant, i.e. child, grandchild, great grandchild, etc. or a legally adopted child, of a U.S. wartime veteran who served on active duty during one or more of the periods of war officially designated as eligibility dates for membership in The American Legion, you will be eligible for many scholarships including the Samsung Scholarship which is only available to Girl and Boys State delegates. A DD214 of the person you are a descendent of, needs to be included with the application. If you need to obtain one, you may go to http://www.militaryvaloan.com/DD214.htm and to start the process of obtaining one. The Samsung application is tough and must be filed out as specified. You may fill out the application on line at http://www.legion.org/documents/legion/pdf/samsung_scholarship_08.pdf (The 2010 application will be posted).
You will have the opportunity for a chance to attend the Girls Nation program, July 23-30th, 2011 in Chevy Chase, Maryland at the National 4-H Conference Center. First each citizen is asked if they can fulfill the obligations of Girls Nation. They must be able to attend all expense paid trip to the July session in Washington Dc. They must also be able to return to next year's session as a Jr. Counselor and a speaker. Selection for Girls Nation is based on participation in sessions, group interaction, etc. during the Girls State Session.
As a Girls State citizen, you are entitled to on line college courses at a discounted price. These online leadership courses are available through the University of Colorado. Check out the Advantages of Girls State. You must complete the full week of Girls State to be able to take advantage of this offer. If you return the following year to Girls State as a junior counselor, there are more on line credits available to you as a Junior Counselor.
You will be held in high regard within your community and as you enter college or the workforce. You never know when you will encounter someone who is a former Girl or Boys Citizens. Girls State has provided a valuable learning ground for hundreds of thousands of accomplished women. Whether you have long-term goals are in government or not, this experience is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity.
ALASKA GIRLS STATE “DO’s AND DON’T’s”
DO Come to Girls State with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Be prepared to spend long, but rewarding, hours learning with the Girls State Program.
DO NOT Think you are coming to a summer recreation camp.
DO Bring comfortable clothes.
Dresses or blouses and skirts, slacks would be nice for speeches, guest speakers, Auxiliary Appreciation dinner.
Slack’s, pant skirts, walking shorts and jeans are permissible, school regulations for clothing apply. Also bring comfortable outdoor shoes. Shower shoes, no street shoes in the shower house.
DO NOT Bring clothes that are not respectable or abuse the dress code.
DO Keep the American Legion Auxiliary Unit, which is sponsoring you, informed of what you are doing. They are proud to have you represent them.
DO NOT Bring anything with you which is extremely valuable as all personal items are your responsibility. Girls State assumes no responsibility for lost items.
DO Make a list of what you bring to Girls State. This can serve as a checklist when packing for home. Mark items with your name before you leave home.
DO NOT Leave anything behind at Girls State. If you do, please contact the American Legion Auxiliary Department Headquarters. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items.
DO Leave your car keys at the Girls State Office if you are driving your personal car.
DO NOT Leave campus anytime during the week. Violators will be immediately sent home.
DO Be very clear about any medical conditions for which the caregivers at Girls State should be aware. We want you to spend a happy and healthy week at Alaska Girls State.
DO NOT Invite male friends to visit during your stay at Alaska Girls State. These visits are not permitted.
DO Be proud of being selected to attend Girls State. It is an honor afforded to only a special group of Alaska’s finest young women each year.
