Column: Girls State prepares young South Dakota leaders

By Taryn Northrup and Lauren Svatos

The mission of the American Legion Auxiliary at South Dakota Girls and Boys State programs is to “provide an outstanding, unique and coveted educational opportunity for young women (and men) who instill the basic ideals of American government.”

Young leading ladies of South Dakota meet for one week a year at Girls State to expand their knowledge of government and form new friendships. Boys State has the same goals; however, the approach to achieving this goal is much different.

The daily routine of the S.D. Girls State delegates is a simple and consistent one.

Macie Redmond, Seattle, said she dreaded “coming to Girls State because of the overwhelming schedule,” but she feels with the agenda, much more is accomplished.

Girls State delegates rarely have free time because of the extensive amount of activities. Delegates at Boys State are given four hours of free time per day.

Sacagawea Scroll writers contacted a few Boys State members and learned the inside scoop on what exactly happens.

On the first day at Boys State, delegates registered and preceded to spend a few hours partaking in a “shirtless Olympic basketball tournament,” ending the night by indulging in a pizza party.

Austin Kusler, Boys State delegate this year, said, “Two periods of free time per day that are two hours each allows for tons of time to use the pool and gym areas on campus.”

Dress codes are yet another separating factor between the Girls and Boys State programs.

Business casual attire was recommended for all attending Girls State.

Luke Latza, another Boys State delegate, said the boys were told to “look presentable.” Pictures show there is a broad variety of everyone’s interpretation of “presentable” at Boys State.

From T-shirts and basketball shorts to suits and ties, all different types of clothes are seemingly acceptable for those at Boys State.

Such activities and behaviors question if Boys State delegates are really receiving the knowledge and experience intended, or if they’re just in it for a title.

Male delegates are still campaigning and giving speeches in attempts to potentially hold a position. The technique, time management and standards used during the week are much different than those at Girls State, but still prove to be effective.

As previously stated, the end goal of both Girls and Boys State is the same: to “provide and outstanding, unique and coveted educational opportunity for young women (and men) that instill(s) the basic ideals of American government.”

The journey to reach this common destination is reachable from many different directions.

photo courtesy of Luke Engal