The American Legion's
Boys State program is a unique way for young men to learn about
the American system of government by taking part in a mock
governmental system.
The program occurs for one week each
summer in 49 of the 50 states (Hawaii does not have a program).
Young men that have just completed their junior year of high
school travel to a college or university location in their home
state. They learn by doing.
Boys State citizens are divided into
two political parties that in no way reflect the ideologies of
the current political system. The citizens then work within
their parties to elect party leadership and develop platform
ideas.
As the week progresses, citizens elect
and appoint city, county and state officials. By the end of the
week, "the 51st State" is established and fully functional.
Citizens leave the program with a sense of accomplishment, a new
understanding of their country's government and with new friends
and contacts that will stay with them for years.
Over one million
men
have experienced American Legion Boys State. Many (like Tom
Brokaw, Vice President Richard Cheney and Michael Jordan)
have gone on to prominent stations in public service as well
as the private sector. Some cite Boys State as the catalyst
that launched them on a career in law or politics.
Boys State citizens are sponsored by
the American Legion and attend the program at little or no
cost to themselves and their families.
(Source: "Learning
Today....Leading Tomorrow." American Legion Boys State
Publicity Pamphlet.)
