Official Notice: Girls State Delegate Fees Due May 1st (click here)

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ALA Arkansas girls State

May 24 – May 29, 2026 at Harding University, Searcy

Important Message from the American Legion Auxiliary Arkansas Girls State Committee

The American Legion Auxiliary Department of Arkansas Girls State Committee is responding to legislation filed in the Arkansas House and Senate that would prevent the use of the Chambers during the 2026 Girls State Session. The legislation appears to stem from concerns regarding students who were not nominated by the published March 27, 2026 deadline.

The American Legion Auxiliary Department of Arkansas is a non-profit organization of volunteers serving veterans, military, and our communities. The Arkansas Girls State Program is one aspect of our mission and has long been recognized as a cornerstone activity in developing informed, engaged, and responsible young citizens.  For decades, the program has provided outstanding educational and leadership opportunities, and its continued success remains a top priority for The American Legion Auxiliary Department of Arkansas. 

The American Legion Auxiliary Department of Arkansas Girls State Committee reserves the right to accept or reject any application for citizenship in American Legion Auxiliary Arkansas Girls State, and final acceptance into the program will be determined by the American Legion Auxiliary.

In preparation for this year’s program, firm application deadlines were established, agreed upon, clearly communicated, and restated well in advance to participating schools. These deadlines are not arbitrary; they are essential to ensure proper planning, housing arrangements, staffing, and an equitable selection process for all applicants statewide.

Despite these efforts, several schools did not meet the established deadlines. Unfortunately, the failure to adhere to these required timelines directly resulted in some qualified applicants being unable to attend the Girls State Program this year. This outcome is deeply regrettable, particularly given the life-changing impact the program can have on its participants.

The American Legion Auxiliary Department of Arkansas remains fully committed to Girls State and to collaborating with schools and Auxiliary units to support student participation. Simultaneously, adherence to established deadlines is critical to maintaining the integrity and operational feasibility of the program. Moving forward, emphasis will continue to be placed on timely communication, accountability, and partnership to ensure that every eligible applicant who meets the requirements has the opportunity to participate.

The American Legion Auxiliary Department of Arkansas appreciates the continued support of educators, counselors, parents, and community leaders, and we remain dedicated to preparing young women for civic leadership and strengthening the Arkansas Girls State Program for many years to come.