Founded in 1937, the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program is a nationwide citizenship and education effort, designed to instill civic responsibility and patriotism into young leaders through active participation in mock government. In all 50 states, the American Legion and ALA host one session each summer, to which rising high school seniors are invited. Participants must display high achievement in academics, extracurriculars, leadership and character. The American Legion’s complementary program for young men is called Boys State.
Texas Bluebonnet Girls State takes place at Texas Lutheran University and hosts up to 600 junior girls from across the state. Girls State “Citizens” build a mythical 51st state, by assembling into cities, counties, political parties and legislative bodies. Citizens learn how to vote, run for office, draft legislation, determine local ordinance, and participate actively in all three branches of government, all in a non-partisan educational setting. The program is capped by a trip to the Texas Capitol to meet elected officials and legislate from the floor of the House and Senate chambers.
For more information about Texas Girls State contact Tracy Gamble at ALATxUnit178GirlsState@gmail.com.