CALIFORNIA BOYS & GIRLS STATE
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Our 2017 Boys State Representatives
Welcome to the electrifying world of American Legion California Boys & Girls State, a high-energy, hands-on crucible where delegates plunge into the living mechanics of citizenship: rights, privileges, and responsibilities. This is not lecture-style civics. It’s government in motion. Built on the California State Constitution, the program teaches city, county, and state government through real, fast-paced experience.
Delegates step into the roles of public servants: they run for and fill city, county, and state offices; draft and debate legislation; preside over court proceedings; stage law-enforcement demonstrations; and lead assemblies that bring real officials face-to-face with tomorrow’s leaders. Every day hums with campaign fervor, legislative drama, and civic collaboration, all conducted to the pulse of our own unique culture.
How do students join the action? High schools nominate promising junior leaders, scholars, and service-minded students (regardless of gender) to their local American Legion Posts. Local Posts interview nominees and choose the delegates who will represent their communities. In most cases, Posts cover program costs.
As a fully inclusive program, we adhere to all federal accessibility laws and welcome participants of every gender identity, background, orientation, experience level, and ability. We want your best and brightest students regardless of gender.
Step in, step up! Experience citizenship brought vividly to life.
For More Information
You may send an email to:
information@post221.org
Please include school name in your email.
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CALIFORNIA GIRLS STATE
For complete information click on above logo
Each Delegate is an 11th grade student and is selected and sponsored by American Legion Auxiliary Unit 221.
PROGRAM Mission Statement
To provide an outstanding, unique, and coveted educational opportunity for young women of California that instills the basic ideals and principles of American government.
PROGRAM Goals
In alignment with the mission of the sponsoring organization, American Legion Auxiliary California GIRLS STATE seeks to promote the traditions of patriotism and citizenship, in an inclusive and civil environment. The organization’s four founding principles of Justice, Freedom, Democracy, and Loyalty combined with the core value of Service Not Self, can be found throughout the conference’s signature practices of promoting an understanding of the democratic process, honoring veterans and the military, mentoring young people, and developing self-efficacy.
During ALA CAGS week-long leadership conference, a diverse mix of delegates from across the state will better their understanding of California’s local, county, and state government systems. This includes governmental structures and operations, as well as the election process for both candidates and voters. Participants will work to create a community unique to the values and beliefs of the current year’s attendees. Through various lessons and simulation activities, participants will have the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and skills in civic engagement, consensus building, advocacy, and service learning. Participants will also gain experience in self-advocacy and public speaking, as well as how to develop social capital by building networks and relationships.