The American Legion Auxiliary’s Empire Girls State (ALA EGS) 83rd year (WOW) is off and running!

On Sunday, June 30, 2024, we proudly welcomed nearly 300 ALA EGS citizens and 33 staff members who came together from every corner of the great state of New York to embark on truly one of the best, most meaningful learning experiences.

Citizens and staff united at SUNY Brockport by car, bus, plane, and train. They hugged and kissed their loved ones goodbye and prepared for an exciting, immersive week of fun, knowledge, and stepping outside our comfort zones.

How does ALA EGS work?

Qualified high school juniors take part in a week-long government workshop, becoming citizens of a mythical 51st state in which they study local, county, and state political and governmental processes. 

• Elect their own officials (county representatives, judges, members of the legislature, state leadership)
• Organize two parties (Nationalists and Federalists)
• Write, present, and debate bills
• Carry out the duties of the office to which they are elected/appointed

This educational program is designed to provide a practical perspective on government structure and operation where the individual is an integral part of, and responsible for, the character and success of her government.

Citizens are separated into 10 counties – all named after famous women in American history: Albright, Angelou, Anthony, Earhart, Ginsburg, O’Connor, Parks, Rankin, Ride, and Tubman.

After checking in, citizens met their counselors and fellow citizens in their counties. They settled into their rooms and started to read about their county’s profiles in the Gold Book – an important part of the ALA EGS puzzle. This is the foundation in which citizens craft bills and represent their county’s interests in the committees.

Working together as a team is crucial! Teamwork makes the dream work! Before getting to work, we prioritized time to get to know each other better through ice breakers and get-to-know-you activities.

Then, citizens learned how to conduct meetings using parliamentary procedures (Parli Pro)!

Parli Pro is so much fun when ice cream is involved!

At our ALA EGS Opening Ceremony, citizens were introduced to all staff members, got ready to begin this great program, and took our ALA Empire Girls State Pledge!

WE ARE READY! Stay tuned for all of the updates here on our blog and on our social media!
Instagram: @alaempiregirlsstate | Facebook: American Legion Auxiliary Empire Girls State