THOMASVILLE- Recently, Jacqueline Pacheco-Garco, Deonna Thomas, and Megan Moncrief of Thomas County Central attended the 2024 Session of the Department of Georgia’s Girls State Program at Valdosta State University.
The three individuals were selected and sponsored by the James Hicks American Legion Auxiliary Unit 519. The Georgia Girls State Program is a part of the Department of Georgia’s American Legion Auxiliary’s Americanism Curriculum.
For one week, the Georgia Girls State participants were given training in the practical processes of good citizenship and how government works. The participants were divided into two political parties to gain knowledge about the operation of a two-party system. The Girls State citizens participated in instructional political parties, they debated and ran for various offices, and elections were held to fill mock city and state positions. Activities included legislative sessions, guest speakers, campaigning, party rallies, voting, and a talent show. The citizens were also given special instruction in Parliamentary Procedures.
Georgia Girls State also gave the citizens the experience of living together as self-governing citizens with the privileges, rights, and responsibilities of American Citizenship. This learning experience helps to educate young women about their duties as United States citizens and encourages their participation in the Democratic process.
The American Legion Auxiliary’s Girls State Program was originally started in the late 1930s as a two-day- session in Washington, D.C. and Delaware. In 1939, it grew into a week-long government program. Since 1948, it has been a regular part of the American Legion Auxiliary’s Americanism Curriculum.
Founded in 1919, the American Legion Auxiliary’s mission is to serve Veterans, their families, and the community.
The James Hicks American Legion Auxiliary Unit 519’s President is Mary Beatty, while the Girls State Chairperson is Celeste Devoe. The Commander of the Post is Tangela Hayes.