July 19-26, 2025
American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students entering their senior year of high school. This weeklong event gives participants a firsthand experience with practical insight into how the federal government works. More than 7,500 students have experienced ALA Girls Nation since it was founded in 1947.
Two students are chosen from each ALA Girls State program. The participants are known as “senators.” During ALA Girls Nation in Washington, D.C., senators participate in a mock legislature. They are responsible for submitting bills and resolutions, participating in senate sessions, and electing officials such as president and vice president.
Participants leave ALA Girls Nation with leadership lessons for life and an understanding of the fundamentals of U.S. government, along with the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of citizens. This seven-day experience has laid the foundation of thousands of bright futures in not only public service, but other careers as well. Some notable industries include government, military, law, education, and media.
ALA Girls Nation connects students with their peers from across the country, allowing them a unique opportunity to spend time with others who share common interests and those who have different perspectives from their own. The participants leave Washington, D.C. with a deeper understanding of government, a renewed sense of patriotism, and an appreciation for veterans.
While in D.C., the senators participate in field trips to visit Capitol Hill, historical Washington monuments, and Arlington National Cemetery.
The ALA Girls State and ALA Girls Nation programs are privately funded and presented by members of the American Legion Auxiliary.
“Empowered women empower women. Thank you to Maryland ALA for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime and thank you to every extraordinary young woman who changed my life for the better. Thank you to ALA Girls Nation for such an experience. A week that I will never forget.”
2018 ALA Girls Nation Senator
“Empowered women empower women. Thank you to Maryland ALA for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime and thank you to every extraordinary young woman who changed my life for the better. Thank you to ALA Girls Nation for such an experience. A week that I will never forget.”
2018 ALA Girls Nation Senator
“This week was filled with amazing opportunities and people. I learned so much about our government and politics. I connected with awesome people. I encourage all young girls out there to take this challenge next year, because you never know who you will meet and what you will do. I promise it to be a rewarding experience and you will make memories for a lifetime.”
2018 ALA Girls Nation Senator
“A special shout out to the Junior Counselors from ALA Girls Nation. They are such an important part of the program and make the whole experience better. No matter what, they are always there to support and cheer, even if they have poker faces. Those two are special and they made my week go above and beyond my expectations.”
2018 ALA Girls Nation Senator
“During the course of the week, I made many friends from across the nation, debated bills written by my fellow senators, and gained a respect of Veterans far greater than ever before. Through this program, I learned of the great sacrifice of our veterans, how to best support veterans, and how I can become part of the Auxiliary to continue supporting American troops. With the incredible women around me, I learned how to become a better leader, how to debate bills under the guidance of the incredible Miss Jane, and celebrate the freedom of America.”
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