The American Legion Auxiliary developed a citizenship
training program based on the formation of the American
Legion's Boys State program. This program offers training
in the positive processes of self-government and good
citizenship as practiced in democratic societies.
Girls State began as one and two day sessions in the late
1930's. In 1939 Girls State was altered to make it a
week-long government education program. Since 1948 it has
been a regular part of the Auxiliary's Americanism
curriculum.
The program is funded by the American Legion Auxiliary with
some additional support coming from other civic and
non-profit organizations. Little or no expense is required
of the delegates and her family.
Each summer approximately 25,000 young women participate in
Girls State sessions across the nation. At Girls State, the
delegates study local, county, and state government. The
girls do this by setting up their own miniature city,
county, and state governments and administer them according
to the rules and procedures set by Nebraska's laws.
After arriving at Cornhusker Girls State, the citizens are
divided into 12 towns named after the Presidents of the
United States. The citizens are also divided into two
political parties -- the Federalists and the Nationalists.
These parties do not reflect the two major political
parties in today's system of government. The parties allow
citizens to gain knowledge of how a two-party system
operates.
Girls State citizens participate in these mock political
parties and elections are held to fill city, county, and
state positions. Other activities include legislative
sessions, campaigning, party rallies, mock trials, and
debating. The citizens also receive instruction in
Parliamentary Procedure.
