GIRLS STATE
Takes place in June of every year.
Contact information: lagirlsstate.com lagirlsstate@gmail.com
The 7th District includes the following parishes: Acadia, Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Evangeline, Jefferson Davis, & St. Landry. Sylvia Matthis is the contact person for the 7th District. Please contact her directly @ katie.matthis@gmail.com
ALA Louisiana Girls State is a unique and exciting government-in-action learning program in which the American Legion Auxiliary guides young women to become knowledgeable stewards of freedom, democracy, and patriotism. At Girls State, participants are called “citizens" who establish their own city, parish, and state government. They are assigned to a political party – “Nationalists” or “Federalists” – these parties are nonpartisan with the goal of educating through experience.
Also known as LAGS, it's a one-week leadership and citizenship training program created to educate outstanding high school students about state and local government. Delegates attending Louisiana Girls State experience governmental procedure by simulating political campaigns, elections, and the political process. They also learn about the principles of citizenship and public service from guest speakers, elected officials, expert panels, and experienced counselors.
Program Objectives
- Develop leadership and pride in American citizens
- Educate citizens about our system of government
- Instill a greater understanding of American traditions
- Stimulate a desire to maintain our democratic government processes within our republic