As part of an ongoing effort to encourage young women to become engaged in Alabama government, State Rep. Susan DuBose (R-Hoover) will host the third annual “Girls’ Day at the Capitol” on Tuesday, December 16.

More than 100 girls from across Alabama, ranging from seventh through twelfth grade, have registered to attend the event, which has reached full capacity.

Co-sponsored by Miss Alabama’s Teen Addison Shoemaker, the event will provide participants with the opportunity to interact with female elected officials, ask questions about public service, participate in a mock State House legislative debate and tour the Alabama Governor’s Mansion.

DuBose said the event is designed to expose students to leadership opportunities while highlighting the need for greater female representation in public office.

“Though Alabama currently enjoys its second female governor, a female U.S. senator and 24 female members of the Alabama Legislature, our state still ranks 47th nationally with just 18 percent of lawmakers being women,” DuBose said. “Women bring a unique perspective and a different set of issues, initiatives and priorities to public service, and it is important for us to encourage future generations of young women to become involved in government and let their voices be heard.”

The day’s schedule includes participants gathering at the Alabama State House, remarks and presentations from female legislators and policymakers in the historic House Chamber and a mock legislative debate and vote.

Governor Kay Ivey is scheduled to greet the group during a visit to the Alabama Governor’s Mansion, where participants will tour the Christmas decorations and take part in a reception and group photo.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].