By MADISON JULIEN
Moapa Valley Progress
My name is Madison Julien and readers may remember my story, published earlier this summer, which reported my experience at Nevada American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Girls State in Carson City.
At Girls State, I was selected by my peers to attend ALA Girls Nation which was held from July 20-27. This amazing program is held every year in Washington D.C. Two girls from every state attended and each girl played the role of a senator from her state.
For seven days we held mock senate sessions which required us to write and debate bills; campaign for elected office; elect an ALA Girls Nation President and Vice President; and work together to pass legislation.
Both ALA Girls Nation senators from every state had to work together to co-write a bill. Before we started the mock Senate session we had to get our bills passed through committee to make sure it was a federal bill addressing federal issues.
The two different parties were Nationalist and Federalist. We did not choose but got randomly assigned. It was very interesting and I learned so much about politics, not just about people’s opinions but how the system works. I also learned how party rallies are assembled and put together.
In addition to mock senate sessions we also went on excursions. We visited Arlington National Cemetery, The National Mall and went to a Military Base in Virginia.
We also met with Vice President Mike Pence who met with us for about 45 minutes. One of the ALA Girls Nation Senators asked him how we could serve our communities better. His response was that the best way to do this was “to raise a family.” I thought this was very insightful.
Pence also listed other ways to be of service. He said that the military is a good way to serve our country. Also owning a business is a great way to make a difference. He told us that it is important to believe in yourself, take leadership positions, act responsibly and have good character. I think Vice President Pence is awesome and I am grateful that he took time out of his day to speak to us.
Another highlight of ALA Girls Nation was Capitol Hill Day! We were able to meet with the senators from our state! We each got a paper saying what time our appointment was with our senator or our senators assistants. The other ALA Girls Nation Senator and I met with Senator Jackie Rosen’s assistants and we got to meet Senator Cortez-Masto in person.
This whole experience was amazing and I am so grateful I was able to go. I learned so much about our government; and that is such valuable knowledge. I will always remember this experience and it will always have a special place in my heart.
Madison Julien is a resident of Bunkerville, NV and is a senior at Virgin Valley High School.
