ORIENTATION INFORMATION

Welcome to Massachusetts Girls State

About Girls State

ALA Girls State/Girls Nation programs is to provide a nonpartisan participatory program that teaches eligible high school females responsible citizenship grounded in ethics, the principles of our nation’s founders and respect for God and Country.

High school girls, who have completed their Junior year, spend an intensive week of study, working together as self-governing citizens at Auxiliary-sponsored Girls State programs in every state. In most cases, expenses associated with attending this program are paid by a sponsoring American Legion Post, a local business or another community-based organization.

Participants learn how to participate in the functioning of their state’s government in preparation for their future roles as responsible adult citizens.

Leadership

Citizens at girls state learn about the core principles of leadership while running for office, writing bills, advocating for their beliefs, and attending sessions about law, government, and social sciences. Campaigns and elections showcase some of the most successful leaders in the program, while academic conversations give them the foundation and confidence to lead with integrity in their communities back home.

Americanism

Each day is begun with a flag ceremony. Respects are paid to both the state and American flag and the Pledge of Allegiance is recited. Being sponsored by the American Legion Auxillary, the program takes to heart the ideals and values that our country was founded on.

Citizenship

Each citizen at girls state will form a city or town with their fellow citizens. Elections will be held within those cities and towns and also on the state level. These elections are mainly run by the citizens themselves. During the week they are presented with real world problems to be solved collectively with their fellow citizens to come up with solutions keeping the whole in mind.

Integrity

Every meeting, ceremony, presentation, and activity at MA Girls State is approached with the utmost integrity in order to emphasize the importance of honesty, sincerity, and honor. These virtues are instilled in citizens when participating in the campaign process, heartfelt debates in classrooms, and challenging conversations between activities

American Legion Auxillary

In the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security.

American Legion Auxillary

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WHAT HAPPENS AT GIRLS STATE?

You will be placed into a city or town with 20-30 other Girls Staters from across Massachusetts with whom you will form life-long friendships

As a program that focuses on government, you will learn about the different aspects that run city and state governments!

During your week at Girls State, you have the opportunity to participate in band, chorus, sports or study halls during your free time. We also hold a talent show and dance at the end of the week to celebrate your successes at Girls State!

Mass Girls State - Group Photo

Learning about the foundation of our nation’s government and the importance of supporting our veterans is one of the main goals of the American Legion Auxillary.

To educate tomorrows leaders of mankind.

You must be entering your senior year of high school, be sponsored by your local American Legion Auxillary or another organization and fill out the requirements on our application. We hope to see you this June!

WHY COME TO GIRLS STATE?

Leadership

Learn how to become a leader in your community while campaigning for positions at Girls State!

Citizenship

Become a citizen of tomorrow! We strive to teach you the core values of being an American citizen.

Friendship

Form friendships with extraordinary women from across Massachusetts that last a lifetime!

Academic

Open your mind to the American political system during your class periods! Learn about Law, Economics, or Government.

5 MAIN REASONS TO COME TO GIRLS STATE

Be part of a more than 60 year tradition – sponsored by the largest women’s patriotic organization – The American Legion Auxiliary.
Opportunity to be chosen as a ALA Girls Nation Delegate to go to Washington, D.C. and represent ALA of  Massachusetts as a Senator – (and possibly meet the President!)
Opportunity to run your own city or town.
Develop valuable skills – public speaking, debating, journalism, confidence builder, etc.
Be empowered by other enthusiastic, intelligent young women.