More than 400 young women from across Alabama have gathered in Tuscaloosa for a hands-on lesson in leadership, government, and civic engagement during the 84th session of the American Legion Auxiliary Alabama Girls State.
Held May 31 through June 5 on the campus of the University of Alabama, the program brings together rising high school seniors from communities throughout the state to learn firsthand how Alabama government works through simulations, debate, elections, and legislative sessions.
Delegates participating in Girls State spend the week writing bills, debating legislation on House and Senate floors, participating in party caucuses, running for office, and hearing from state leaders and public officials. Organizers said this year’s session is one of the largest delegations in the program’s history.
The week will also feature appearances by several prominent Alabama leaders, including Gov. Kay Ivey and U.S. Sen. Katie Britt (R-Montgomery). Both women share a personal connection to the program.
According to organizers, Ivey previously served as a Girls State lieutenant governor, while Britt was elected Girls State governor in 1999.
“Girls State is designed to provide the best training possible in practical leadership, citizenship engagement and constitutional democracy,” said Lee Sellers, director of American Legion Auxiliary Alabama Girls State.
“This will be our 84th session of Girls State, and we know from experience that our delegates increase their knowledge about Alabama, grow their leadership skills, and understand the importance of active, citizen participation in the communities throughout our great state. Within a week, our delegates gain a comprehensive awareness of all aspects of government and a love of Country,” Sellers added.
Additional speakers scheduled throughout the week include Judge Monet Gaines, Liz Huntley, Alabama Treasurer Young Boozer, and Dr. Cathy Randall.
The program will conclude with a visit to Montgomery, where delegates will meet with elected officials, hold legislative sessions, and tour the Alabama Capitol, Supreme Court, and Governor’s Mansion.
For more than eight decades, Alabama Girls State has introduced young women to the responsibilities of citizenship and public service while helping many future leaders gain their first practical experience in government and civic leadership.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
