With only one night left, today was about closing the loop — finishing the work, hearing final rulings, and getting ready to celebrate everything this week has built.
Ride County led this morning’s Flag Raising Ceremony, featuring a bagpipe performance.
Ceremony for the Disposal of Unserviceable Flags
Right after, the Ceremony for the Disposal of Unserviceable Flags brought together one citizen from each county to take part — a solemn, respectful tradition honoring flags that have reached the end of their service.
General Session
The morning General Session opened with ALA Department of New York President Maureen Morgan speaking about her presidential pin and the meaning behind ALA membership.
Afterward, citizens paused for the Blue Star Banner Presentation, honoring citizens and staff with family members currently serving in the U.S. military — a visible tribute to the personal connections many in the room share with those in uniform.
Appellate Court
Citizens then took part in Appellate Court, presenting arguments and hearing rulings from the state’s highest judicial body — a chance to put a week of legal and procedural learning on full display.
Special Legislative Session
A Special Legislative Session was called today after every pesticide-related bill failed to pass yesterday. The chairs and vice chairs of the committees behind those bills got together, worked out a way to amend one of the bills, and brought it back to the floor — where it passed!
Getting Ready for Tonight
The afternoon was all about preparation — a State of the State Ceremony rehearsal, followed by the full ALA Empire Girls State group picture.
State of the State Ceremony
Tonight, all counties gathered for the State of the State Ceremony — a formal celebration of everything this week has built. Citizens were recognized not just for what they accomplished, but for how they showed up for each other all week long.
The Governor took the stage to deliver her address, closing with a line from Ruth Bader Ginsburg:
“Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
Several major honors were awarded. Congratulations to Ava W of Ride County, recipient of the Wendy Privitera Spirit of ALA Empire Girls State Award, given to a citizen who exemplified passion, dedication, and teamwork throughout the week. Congratulations also to Julia S, also of Ride County, named this year’s Samsung Scholarship Finalist for her academic excellence and commitment to community service.
Finally, the moment everyone was waiting for: our ALA Girls Nation Senators were announced. Congratulations to Francesca E of Chisholm County and Clover G of Ginsburg County — we can’t wait to see what you accomplish at ALA Girls Nation!
Chairman Steph closed out the ceremony with a reminder that this community doesn’t end tonight:
“There will always be room for you in the pony circle.”
One Final Night
After the ceremony, counties gathered for one last night of celebrating together before tomorrow’s goodbyes.
Thank You
This week would not have been possible without so many people.
To our counselors, staff, and volunteers: thank you for the countless hours you poured into every county meeting, committee session, and late-night conversation. This program runs on your dedication.
To our families and communities: thank you for encouraging these citizens to step outside their comfort zones and take this week on.
And to our citizens: thank you for showing up with open minds and a willingness to grow. Watching you become engaged, involved, heard, and ready to lead has been the best part of this week.
We can’t wait to see what you all do next.
📰 Girls State Gazette — Issue 6: Becoming More Our official daily newsletter covers everything happening inside ALA EGS — election results, legislative action, wellness tips, county news, and more. 👉 Check out the Gazette
Happy Independence Day! Citizens traded their usual uniforms for red, white, and blue today, and spent it in the Legislative Session, taking on the role of elected officials.
Picotte County led this morning’s Flag Raising Ceremony.
Pocket Flags
Ahead of the Legislative Session, citizens took part in the Americanism Pocket Flag activity, learning to fold miniature American flags — the same kind often sent to deployed service members as a reminder that they’re remembered and appreciated.
Legislative Session
Political Instructors gave citizens an overview before the Legislative Session convened, and from there, senators and assembly members spent the day putting a full week of work to the test — presenting the bills they wrote in committee, asking questions, debating, and voting, all according to the parliamentary procedure they learned back on Day 1. It’s the moment everything since Tuesday has been building toward.
For the first time in the 2000s, every single bill drafted by our committees was heard on the floor. Of the 23 bills brought forward, 15 passed in both the Senate and the Assembly. Tonight, the Governor will have the chance to sign them into law or veto them.
Flag Lowering Ceremony
This evening, Anthony County led the Flag Lowering Ceremony — the first one this week we were able to hold outside, which was a great change of pace after a week of heat and indoor ceremonies.
Service, Sweets, & Social Networking
Tonight’s Service, Sweets, & Social Networking Event brought citizens together across counties and parties to support this year’s Department President’s projects: the Military Women’s Memorial in Washington, D.C., and ALA Empire Girls State itself.
Citizens wrote cards to women veterans, which will be delivered to the Memorial and to women veterans visiting. They also wrote cards to future EGS citizens, to be sealed in a time capsule and opened for the 100th session in 2041 — a nice reminder that this session is part of something much larger than itself.
One Night Only: Please Clap!
The evening also featured a special performance by Please Clap!, the ALA EGS Band — a one-night-only show for a crowd that had spent all day debating and was more than ready to cut loose. This year’s band was directed by Chairman Steph, with Counselor Gina serving as staff assistant and miniature guitarist, backed by a surprisingly large kazoo section, flutes, saxophones, trash can drums, maracas, and more. They closed out the night with a spirited rendition of “What Makes You Beautiful” by One Direction.
Also tonight: ALA Girls Nation finalist candidates submitted their videos for staff review, one of the last steps before two citizens are chosen to represent New York at ALA Girls Nation. Results are announced at Sunday’s State of the State Ceremony!
📰 Girls State Gazette — Issue 5: Becoming a Citizen Our official daily newsletter covers everything happening inside ALA EGS — election results, legislative action, wellness tips, county news, and more. 👉 Check out the Gazette
It’s Rally Day — parade, campaign speeches, a Town Hall debate, and by tonight, our new state officials.
Ginsburg County led this morning’s Flag Raising Ceremony, with a rendition of “This Land Is Your Land.”
ALA Membership & Poppy Presentation
This morning’s General Session opened with ALA Department of New York President, Maureen Morgan, speaking about ALA membership. From there, Chairman Steph and Academic Coordinator Claire introduced citizens to the EGS Alumni Association — lovingly known around here as the dopest sisterhood in America — a reminder that the community citizens build this week doesn’t have to end when the program does.
Then citizens took part in an Americanism Poppy Presentation, a tribute to the red poppy’s role as a symbol of remembrance and sacrifice for those who served and died in war.
Final Push on Committees
Committee work hit its final stretch this morning. Campaign Committees put the finishing touches on their skits for this afternoon’s Rally, with Platform Committees pitching in on posters and staging. Issue Committees turned in their final bills — two per committee — before heading back to the dorms, then moved on to case studies.
County Court
This afternoon, counties held mock County Court sessions, with citizens stepping into roles like judge, district attorney, and public defender to hear cases and issue rulings — hands-on practice with the judicial side of government.
County Parade & Rally
By early afternoon, citizens had changed into their party colors — Nationalists and Federalists — and lined up for the County Parade, walking to Edwards Hall behind the state office candidates.
From there, it was straight into the Rally: 20 minutes per party of skits, chants, and full-volume party spirit, with Nationalists and Federalists facing off from opposite sides of the room.
Town Hall Debate
State office candidates then faced off in the Town Hall Debate, fielding questions submitted by citizens throughout the week. Each candidate opened with a brief statement before taking on questions for their office, with two minutes to answer and a one-minute rebuttal.
Voting followed immediately after — every county casting ballots to elect this year’s state officials.
Flag Lowering Ceremony
As evening set in, Mink County led the Flag Lowering Ceremony, including a reading about notable women in history.
State Officials Announced
The night’s biggest moment came in the evening General Session, when this year’s state officials were officially announced.
Congratulations to our newly elected ALA Empire Girls State officials:
After our state officials were announced, they were installed into their offices by ALA Department of NY President, Maureen Morgan.
ALA Girls Nation: Round 2
Right after, Party Caucuses reconvened for the second round of ALA Girls Nation selection, with yesterday’s nominees giving their speeches before citizens narrowed the field further.
📰 Girls State Gazette — Issue 4: Becoming a Leader Our official daily newsletter covers everything happening inside ALA EGS — election results, legislative action, wellness tips, county news, and more. 👉 Check out the Gazette
If you walked past Edwards Hall today, you’d have caught platform votes, candidate speeches, and caucus floor time stacked back to back — citizens finding their voice, one mic moment at a time.
Chisholm County led this morning’s Flag Raising Ceremony, with Taps played and a reading of “In Flanders Fields.”
Speaker Series: Miranda Leo
In the General Session, citizens heard from Miranda Leo Klingensmith, an ALA Empire Girls State alumna and Senior Recruiter at Insero Talent Solutions in Rochester, where she specializes in executive talent acquisition and inclusive, data-driven hiring practices.
Miranda’s commitment to community runs deep. She serves on the boards of the Small Business Council of Rochester, the National Human Resources Association Rochester Affiliate, and Villa of Hope, and volunteers with Best Buddies of Western New York and St. Peter’s Soup Kitchen. Rochester Young Professionals recently recognized her with their Community Development Award for Leadership and Community Impact, and she joined WXXI’s Connections with Evan Dawson earlier this year to talk about redefining service for the next generation.
Miranda shared her own EGS story — walking in nervous that she didn’t know anyone and was the only citizen from her school, only to find that everyone felt the same way, and that the friendships and confidence she built that week stuck with her long after. From there, she traced a not-so-straight line from that one week to the career she has now, arguing that a single twenty-minute act of courage (like introducing yourself to a stranger) can set the course for everything that follows, and that showing up for your community and building real relationships is what actually opens doors.
“Leadership isn’t a title – it’s what you do, and it’s choosing to make your community a little better than you found it.”
Committees, Platforms, and Bills
Committee work continued through the morning and into a working lunch. Platform Committees raced to finalize their platforms, due by 1:30 PM ahead of tonight’s Party Caucus vote. Issue committees kept building out their two bills apiece, and Campaign Committees polished their skits ahead of tomorrow’s Rally.
Programs in the ALA
Right after committee work wrapped up, ALA Department of New York President Maureen Morgan took the floor to walk citizens through the many programs the American Legion Auxiliary runs beyond Empire Girls State.
Flag Lowering Ceremony
As the day wound down, Angelou County led the evening’s Flag Lowering Ceremony.
Evening General Session
Winners of this afternoon’s interviews were announced in the evening General Session: congratulations to our new Senate Majority Leader and Speaker of the Assembly!
Party Caucuses: Nominee Elections & Platform Votes
Tonight’s Party Caucuses carried real weight. Each party heard from its ten county-endorsed nominees for each of the four state offices — Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Comptroller, and Attorney General — before voting down to a single nominee per office. By the end of the night, the Nationalists and Federalists each had their four candidates, bringing the field to eight citizens who’ll spend the next two days campaigning for state office. Parties also voted on their final platforms, with issue committees continuing their bill work into tomorrow.
Congratulations to our newly party-endorsed state office nominees:
Meet the Candidates
After caucus, citizens had the chance to do some whistle-stop campaigning of their own back in the dorms, meeting the eight candidates now running for state office before tomorrow’s Rally kicks off the real campaign trail.
📰 Girls State Gazette — Issue 3: Becoming Heard Our official daily newsletter covers everything happening inside ALA EGS — election results, legislative action, wellness tips, county news, and more. 👉 Check out the Gazette
Day 2 hit the ground running! Rankin County led this morning’s Flag Raising Ceremony — our first of the week. With yesterday’s heat wave still holding on, we moved it indoors — same respect for the flag, just with air conditioning.
POW/MIA Ceremony
From there, citizens moved into a POW/MIA Ceremony in Edwards Hall. At the front of the room sat a small, solitary table — set for one, and left empty on purpose. It’s a longstanding tradition meant to symbolize the service members missing from our ranks: the prisoners of war and those missing in action that we remember as comrades. It’s a quiet, powerful moment in an otherwise high-energy week, and a reminder of the values of service and sacrifice that underpin the ALA EGS experience.
Speaker Series: Justice Elizabeth Fortino
In the General Session, citizens heard from Justice Elizabeth Fortino, an ALA Empire Girls State alumna and a Justice of the New York State Supreme Court, Fifth Judicial District, serving Oneida County and the surrounding region. She earned her law degree from the University at Buffalo and spent more than two decades as an attorney and Director at the NYS Appellate Division Fourth Department Mental Hygiene Legal Service, advocating for individuals with mental illness and developmental disabilities — work she balanced alongside teaching as an adjunct professor at Utica University, SUNY Polytechnic, and SUNY Oswego.
Justice Fortino spoke candidly about her own career pivots — the leaps she took between advocacy work, teaching, and eventually the bench — and encouraged citizens to take risks and get comfortable stepping outside their comfort zones, just as they’re doing this week at ALA EGS.
“Growth doesn’t happen in comfort.”
Coming from someone who sat exactly where our citizens are sitting now — as an Empire Girls State citizen herself — the message landed. Today’s citizens, tomorrow’s judges, legislators, and leaders.
What Is the ALA?
Following Justice Fortino, ALA Department of New York President Maureen Morgan took the floor to talk about the organization behind the program: “What is the ALA?” — a look at the American Legion Auxiliary’s mission and the community of members who make the ALA the service-minded organization that it is.
Committee Work Begins
Citizens also received their first official guidance from Political Instructors on how to approach committee work. Committees then met to elect their chairs and vice chairs, and citizens got to work identifying issues and drafting the bills they’ll debate later in the week.
Flag Lowering Ceremony
Tonight’s flag lowering ceremony was led by Parks County and included their rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner.
Party Caucuses
The evening brought Party Caucuses, where the Nationalists gathered in Room 100 and the Federalists in Room 103 to elect their State Party Leaders and hear the first Platform Committee and Campaign Committee reports of the week.
Congratulations to our newly elected State Party Leaders:
📰 Girls State Gazette — Issue 2: Becoming Involved Our official daily newsletter covers everything happening inside ALA EGS — election results, legislative action, wellness tips, county news, and more. 👉 Check out the Gazette
The American Legion Auxiliary’s Empire Girls State (ALA EGS) 85th session is officially underway! On Tuesday, June 30, 2026, about 250 citizens and more than 30 staff members arrived at SUNY Brockport from every corner of New York — and they picked a scorcher of a day to do it. With temperatures in the 90s and a real feel pushing 100, there were a lot of sweaty hugs goodbye in the parking lot, but nothing could cool the excitement in the air.
Day 1 Theme: Becoming Brave. Every leader starts by showing up — and today, in 100-degree heat, our citizens showed up ready.
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. Over the week, they elect their own officials (county representatives, judges, members of the legislature, state leadership), organize into two parties (Nationalists and Federalists), write, present, and debate bills, and carry out the duties of the offices to which they’re elected or appointed.
This educational program is designed to provide a practical perspective on government structure and operation, where each citizen is an integral part of, and responsible for, the character and success of her government.
Citizens are separated into 9 counties — all named after famous women in American history: Angelou, Anthony, Chisholm, Ginsburg, Mink, Parks, Picotte, Rankin, and Ride.
Settling In
After check-in, citizens met their counselors and fellow citizens in their counties, unpacked, and blasted their fans before diving into the Citizens Manual and county profiles — the foundation for the bills they’ll write and the offices they’ll seek this week. Counties held their first meetings, formed political parties, elected senators and county party officers, and got their committee assignments. Teamwork makes the dream work, even in a heat wave!
Parli Pro… and a Motion for Ice Cream
Then came the fan-favorite Parliamentary Procedure (Parli Pro) workshop — ice cream included. The samples set out as props for the exercise never quite survive the workshop, but with today’s heat, they didn’t stand a chance — melting faster than usual while citizens learned the rules, with the rest safely waiting in the freezer. Once they had the basics down, citizens put them to immediate use, amending and seconding to get everyone their (still-frozen) ice cream.
Opening Ceremony
The evening’s Opening Ceremony in Edwards Hall began with ALA EGS Chairman Steph challenging every citizen in the room:
“Let your voice rise and become heard, and from there, become a leader – in whatever shape that looks like for you, because leadership has no single shape.”
The evening closed with citizens taking the ALA Empire Girls State Pledge, officially kicking off the 85th session.
📰 Girls State Gazette — Issue 1: Becoming Brave Our official daily newsletter covers everything happening inside ALA EGS — election results, legislative action, wellness tips, county news, and more. 👉 Check out the Gazette
With only one night left of the program, Day 6 was all about reflection, recognition, and rising to the moment. From the courtroom to the celebration stage, our citizens stepped into their roles as tomorrow’s changemakers with pride and purpose.
🌅 Kicking Off with County Spirit
Ride County opened the morning with a powerful Flag Raising Ceremony, reminding us all of the respect, unity, and civic responsibility that anchor Empire Girls State.
⚖️ Voices of Justice and Leadership
The morning General Session featured the Appellate Court, where select cases were brought before our highest judicial body. Citizens demonstrated confidence and critical thinking as they presented arguments and listened to decisions.
Later, the excitement grew with the announcement of this year’s gubernatorial appointments—a proud recognition of leaders chosen to serve the state—and the ceremonial signing of bills into law, bringing a week of debate and collaboration full circle. A surprise Special Legislative Session gave citizens one last opportunity to speak up and pass meaningful legislation.
💙 Honoring Service and Sacrifice
Midday brought moments of reflection as we paused for the Blue Star Banner Presentation, honoring citizens and staff who have family members currently serving in the U.S. military. The banner was a visible tribute to the personal connections many of us share to those in uniform.
That spirit of service continued into the afternoon with a powerful presentation and panel discussion featuring members of our staff who have served in the military. They shared their unique perspectives on leadership, courage, and what service means to them—reminding us all of the different ways we can lead and give back.
🏛️ State of the State Ceremony
In the evening, all counties gathered for the State of the State Ceremony, a formal celebration of the week’s accomplishments. Citizens were recognized not only for their achievements but for the way they showed up for each other—as teammates, collaborators, and friends.
This year’s Governor, Yashica, took the stage to deliver a powerful and personal address to the citizens of Empire Girls State. She opened with a spirited “Hey Barbie,” earning laughs and cheers from the crowd, then moved into a heartfelt reflection on what it means to be truly seen—not just for what you’ve accomplished, but for who you are. Her words served as a moving reminder that leadership comes from within, and that being authentic, vulnerable, and kind can be the most powerful form of strength.
During the ceremony, several major honors were awarded.
We proudly announced the recipient of the Wendy Privitera Spirit of ALA Empire Girls State Award, a citizen who exemplified passion, dedication, and teamwork throughout the week.
We also celebrated our Samsung Scholarship Finalist, selected for academic excellence and commitment to community service.
Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for—our Girls Nation Senators were announced.
Congratulations to Maya and Malunga! We can’t wait to see what you accomplish at ALA Girls Nation.
✨ A Night to Reflect
As the sun set on Day 6, there was a sense of pride and purpose in the air. With just one night left of the program, citizens took a moment to reflect on how far they’ve come—from nervous introductions to confident voices in the courtroom, the legislature, and beyond.
Tonight’s events reminded us that Empire Girls State is more than just a weeklong experience—it’s a launching pad for future changemakers. And while the program may be drawing to a close, the friendships, lessons, and memories created here will carry on long after the final flag ceremony.
💛 Thank You
This unforgettable day—and the entire week—would not be possible without the dedication and support of so many people.
To the counselors, staff, and volunteers who give their time, energy, and hearts to this program—thank you for being the guiding force behind every county meeting, legislative debate, and late-night laugh.
To our guest speakers, veteran panelists, and award presenters—thank you for sharing your wisdom and stories. You’ve inspired a new generation of civic-minded leaders.
To the families, communities, and American Legion Auxiliary members who support these citizens from home—thank you for encouraging their participation in this life-changing experience.
And most of all, to our citizens—thank you for showing up with open minds, brave hearts, and a willingness to grow. Your enthusiasm, curiosity, and leadership have shaped this week into something truly unforgettable.
Together, you’re helping shape a future built on service, leadership, and unity. From the bottom of our hearts—thank you.
We’re thrilled to share that Empire Girls State was featured by Spectrum Local News, highlighting how the program is “inspiring tomorrow’s leaders.” The article captured the spirit of civic learning, leadership, and empowerment that’s been on full display all week.
“It really does something to you. It brings something out of you that you didn’t know you have. Whatever your comfort zone is, you get pushed out of it and you expand your horizons. You get what you put into it and it is truly life-changing,” said Herrman-Moran, ALA Empire Girls State Chair.
Citizens swapped their signature uniforms for festive red, white, and blue outfits in celebration of the Fourth of July. The day began with a meaningful flag raising ceremony led by Picotte County, honoring the history of American independence and the responsibilities that come with civic leadership.
The spirit of the day was clear—pride, unity, and purpose were on full display as counties gathered to kick off a day devoted to public service and civic engagement.
🎖️ Pocket Flags: Learning Through Service
Before the legislative session began, citizens participated in the Americanism Pocket Flag Project, a hands-on activity designed to teach the meaning behind a small but powerful symbol.
During the session, students learned how to properly fold miniature American flags and discussed why these flags are often sent to deployed service members as a reminder that they are remembered and appreciated. The activity served as a powerful reminder that service takes many forms, and even small acts can carry deep meaning.
🧑⚖️ Legislative Session: Real Debate, Real Decisions
The bulk of the day was spent in Legislative Session, where citizens stepped fully into their roles as senators and assembly members. After an overview by the Political Instructors, the Assembly and Senate convened to consider some of the bills crafted earlier this week in committee.
Citizens stood to present their legislation, asked thoughtful questions, and voted on whether each bill should pass. The room buzzed with focus and determination as each participant took the responsibility of lawmaking seriously.
From education and public health to transportation and equity, the bills reflected a wide range of priorities—and the passion behind every proposal was undeniable.
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
While the legislative session was underway, counselors and staff worked hard to prepare for the upcoming State of the State ceremony—folding programs, organizing materials, coordinating logistics, and outfitting one of our mascots. County Executives tracked votes and ensured smooth reporting, helping bring order and structure to a packed agenda.
🌇 Flag Lowering Ceremony
As the sun set on Independence Day, citizens gathered for a reflective flag lowering ceremony led by Anthony County. The moment offered a quiet pause after a day full of spirited debate and civic activity—reminding all in attendance of the values that unite us in service, respect, and community.
🎉 Service, Sweets & Social Networking
After a full day of legislative work, citizens gathered for an evening of connection and community at the Service, Sweets & Social Networking Event. 🍪✨
This year’s event supported the service project selected by ALA Department of New York President Kim Quick: Homeward Bound Adirondacks, a nonprofit organization based in Saranac Lake, NY.
Homeward Bound Adirondacks serves as a beacon of support for the veteran community across Northern New York. Staffed predominantly by veterans, the organization uses a peer-to-peer model to provide comprehensive assistance and forge personal, effective connections. Their mission reflects the quote that guides their work:
“Bravery isn’t the absence of fear but the fortitude to confront the painful past while steadfastly walking towards healing.”
To support this important cause, citizens had the opportunity to participate in a variety of service activities, including:
Tying fleece blankets
Creating red, white, and blue pins
Writing heartfelt cards for veterans
Contributing artwork for the organization’s Welcome Center
While crafting, creating, and enjoying sweet treats, students connected across counties and parties, embodying the values of service, leadership, and compassion that define Empire Girls State.
🎶 One Night Only: Please Clap!
This year’s Service, Sweets & Social Networking Event featured a very special (and highly anticipated) performance by the one, the only: Please Clap!, the ALA EGS Band.
The group is technically led by ALA EGS Vice Chair Steph, though the term “led” might be used a bit generously here. Think more enthusiastic chaos coordinator than conductor—and we mean that in the most loving way.
Their spirited rendition of “What Makes You Beautiful” by One Direction brought the crowd to life, complete with a full (and delightfully eclectic) ensemble: flutes, trumpets, saxophones, a cello, an electric guitar, a glockenspiel, and an expansive percussion section featuring everything from maracas to Helena the trash can drum.
It was loud. It was joyful. It was a little bit unhinged. And it was exactly what EGS needed.
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!
This morning, Chisholm County led our flag raising ceremony! Learning how to properly raise the flag and show respect is important to us—remove your hats and say the Pledge of Allegiance!
Today’s speaker in our ALA EGS Speaker Series was Dr. Marielena Velez De Brown—Commissioner of the Monroe County Department of Public Health and Medical Director of Starlight Pediatrics. She shared a powerful message about the role of public health in shaping strong, equitable communities. They discussed the importance of addressing social determinants of health—like housing, education, and access to care—and encouraged citizens to think beyond policies and consider the real people impacted by their decisions. It was a meaningful reminder that civic leadership and public health go hand in hand.
LOTS of work on our bills!
The Nationalists and Federalists committee members were hard at work! In order to address the issues each county faces, committee members wrote bills together! They discussed problems, crafted creative solutions and listened to each other’s concerns. With the guidance of our ALA EGS political advisors and counselors, ideas flowed and solutions flourished.
Ceremony for the Disposal of Unserviceable Flags
Tubman County led the Ceremony for Unserviceable Flags. In 1937, the American Legion passed a resolution about flag retirement ceremonies, and its members created the flag code which states that “the flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing.” As such, the ceremonies are held in a specific manner. Participants stand aligned in two rows facing each other, as the unserviceable flag is reviewed by members before placing the flag on a small fire. The ashes of the unserviceable flag are buried as a sign of respect.
Tonight’s flag lowering ceremony, led by Angelou County, was a tribute to reflection and resilience. Citizens began by reading a poem by their county’s namesake, Maya Angelou, followed by a small group performance of the national anthem.
Legislative Leaders Appointed
This evening, the Majority Leader of the Senate and Speaker of the Assembly were officially appointed following a selective interview process conducted by our political instructors and party advisors.
40 speeches and a party platform? Oh yeah, we can do that!
40 speeches? But what are they for? In our mythical 51st state, citizens elect a Governor, Lt. Governor, Comptroller and Attorney General.
For example (get ready for some math)—our Feds take one room and our Nats take one room. In the Nats caucus, each county (10 counties total) nominates 1 citizen for a position. Therefore, we listen to 10 2-minute speeches for one position. Then, citizens vote for their nominee. We repeat this process three more times. That means that in each party caucus, we heard 40 speeches tonight—yes, you read that correctly! At the end of the night, the Nats have 4 nominees and the Feds have 4 nominees! We can’t wait for tomorrow’s elections!
American Legion Auxiliary Empire Girls State 