🎖️ Morning Moments

The day began with a flag raising ceremony by Ginsburg County. Afterwards, we moved into our morning General Session, where citizens experienced a meaningful Poppy Presentation, honoring the sacrifices of veterans and the continued mission of the American Legion Auxiliary. The poppy, a symbol of remembrance, encouraged thoughtful reflection on civic duty and service.

Following the presentation, the ALA Department President shared remarks about the importance of membership, legacy, and leadership through the Auxiliary. Citizens were introduced to the EGS Alumni Association and welcomed into a larger community committed to making a difference.

💬 Guest Speaker: Kelli Nicholas Owens

During the afternoon, citizens also heard from Kelli Nicholas Owens, Executive Director of the NYS Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence. She spoke about her career in public policy, the importance of advocacy, and her role in shaping major legislation—from reproductive rights to workplace protections. Her message was clear: everyone has the power to lead with purpose and create change.

⚖️ Committees, Court, & Case Studies

Later in the morning, committees reconvened to finalize skits, create posters, and complete bill writing. Campaign and platform committees prepped for the afternoon rally, while issue committees collaborated on meaningful legislation.

After lunch, counties held mock court sessions, giving citizens a chance to take on roles like judge, district attorney, and public defender. These courtroom experiences helped bring civic procedures to life in an empowering and hands-on way.

🎉 County Parade & Campaign Rally

The afternoon brought high energy as citizens changed into party colors and assembled for the annual County Parade. With banners waving and cheers echoing, counties marched to Edwards Hall behind their state office candidates.

The Campaign Rally showcased skits, chants, and enthusiastic party spirit as both the Federalists and Nationalists rallied around their candidates and shared their vision for the 51st State.

🗣️ Town Hall Debate & Voting

Following the rally, the Town Hall Debate gave candidates the chance to respond to citizen-submitted questions and share their priorities. Citizens listened intently as statewide candidates gave thoughtful, often passionate answers on leadership, values, and service.

Electronic voting began after the debate, with counties casting their votes to elect their new state officials.

🌙 Evening Events

The day concluded with a flag lowering ceremony, led by Mink County. 

During General Session, citizens learned the results of the state official elections, and winners were formally installed. For those not elected, the opportunity to continue their leadership journey remained open—ALA Girls Nation nominations began immediately after, launching the next phase of civic engagement for many.

Congratulations to our Empire Girls State officials!

💛 ALA Girls Nation: Leadership Lessons for Life

What is ALA Girls Nation? For seven days in Washington, D.C., ALA Girls Nation senators hold mock Senate sessions which require them to write, caucus, and debate bills, campaign for elected office, elect an ALA Girls Nation president and vice president, and work together to pass legislation. But, the program is so much more than hours spent in Senate.

Each county elected four citizens (two per party) to campaign to attend ALA Girls Nation in July 2025.

At the party caucuses tonight, nominees gave 2-minute speeches to persuade their fellow citizens to vote for them. Then, citizens selected five Nationalist candidates and five Federalist candidates – these 10 move onto the next round. They craft a video for staff to review—two citizens are selected to represent New York State at ALA Girls Nation. Results are announced at the State of the State Ceremony on Saturday!

Stay tuned to hear more about our week at ALA EGS!
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