ALABGS Chairman Welcome

Hello 2026 Delegates of the American Legion Auxiliary Badger Girls State!

I welcome you to both the UWO campus and to the 51st State of Badger. I know for a lot of you this week has been a source of nervousness, joy, and excitement. I hope that you can relax and enjoy yourself for the next 4-5 days. I also hope that you become involved in some way this week.

Whether it’s running for an office, volunteering to be a town crier, or even just helping make the city map, there are many ways to show off your unique abilities and talents. My other hope is that by the end of the week you walk away with a greater understanding of democracy and all the pieces that are needed to make our system of government work.

And, of course, I hope that you walk away with a promise to yourself that you will vote in every single election, and make the effort to research all candidates and legislation. Democracy, of course, cannot work without the input of the people, and yes - that includes you! So go forth and have fun, make friends, and learn something new this week. I promise it will be worth it.