This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Who run the world? Girls!

As Beyonce Reminds us, the world is run by empowered women. In our modern era, women are increasingly taking on the leadership positions normally reserved for men. But what if women truly did run the world? For one week each year, this utopian idea is put to the test.
Girls State, a program run by the American Legion Auxiliary, has been educating young women about government and grooming them to take on leadership roles for 70 years now. Each year, the Auxiliary selects one girl from each of approximately 500 high schools throughout their state to send to this revolutionary program. 
"I have never been among such motivated and passionate young women before," Serena Wang said. "You see the intellect, unity, and determination shine in each individual and you can't help but feel blessed to be surrounded by such amazing people."
Throughout the week long program, this outstanding group of young women receive a crash course in government, while simultaneously running one of their own. They began by joining a political party and attending party meanings where they debated various planks in their party platform.
"Girls State provides the opportunity to have discussions on important topics relevant to today, to listen to others with different perspectives, and the possibility of coming away with a new outlook and a better understanding of issues that will impact our future," Natalie Cernius said.
The participants then took the opinions they form and use them to develop legislation that they deliberated over in the Senate and platforms that they used to run for political offices at the city, county, and state level.
"I now understand how to run an active and effective government at city, county, and state levels," Suhaa Dada said. "Also, I have learned the value of putting our perspectives and opinions together into legislation that can make a difference."
And the impact of the ideas formed by the girls went beyond the program. Legislation drawn up and passed in the Girls State Senate has the possibility of being passed on to the state government. Additionally, two delegate from each Girls State were chosen to continue on to Girls Nation in Washington D.C. where they will have the opportunity to meet with Senators and the President of the United States to share the work they've done through the Girls State program.
"Seeing what we've accomplished in just one week gives me hope for our generation," Maggie Whitt said.
By the end of the week, the Girls who participate in the program have their character shaped by not only their newfound involvement in government, but also by the other Girls State delegates. The chance to interact and collaborate with other high achieving young women challenges these girls in new ways and fosters incredible growth.
"I truly believe that this program has the ability to change lives and change the world," Halle Russell said. "I am so thankful for this opportunity; for these lessons learned and these friendships made."

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?