Girls State / Girls Nation

Accept the Challenge!

Each summer, approximately 16,000 young women participate in Girls State programs across the nation. 

Every American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program operates with the same patriotic values through a nonpartisan curriculum where girls assume the roles of government leaders, campaigning in mock parties to become mayors and county and state officials of their Girls State.  

The program is a weeklong immersive learning experience, often held on a college campus where girls live in “cities” within a dormitory-like setting.  The learning, experience, memories, and friendships last a lifetime.

Girls Nation Senators spend a week creating a mock legislature, submitting bills and resolutions, participating in senate sessions, holding a national convention, and electing officials such as President and Vice President.  

Special trips include visits to the White House, Arlington National Cemetery, monuments, and Capitol Hill meeting with the Girls States’ Senators and Representatives. The events happen once in a lifetime, the memories last a lifetime!

Holocaust survivor Nesse Godin
poses with Girls Nation
participants

Magnolia Girls State applications