Girls State

In the thought-provoking documentary "Girls State," we are presented with a unique and intriguing premise: to envision what American democracy would resemble if teenage girls were at the helm. To achieve this, the filmmakers create an immersive experiment in which young female leaders from Missouri are tasked with building a government from scratch. This documentary offers an intimate look into the experiences of these young women as they navigate the complexities of politics, governance, and leadership. The film introduces us to the participants of the American Legion Auxiliary's Girls State program, a highly selective event that brings together talented and ambitious teenagers from diverse backgrounds. Our protagonists represent a wide range of experiences, socioeconomic statuses, and geographical locations within Missouri. They hail from affluent suburban neighborhoods, low-income urban districts, and rural communities, among others. Through a series of interviews, observational scenes, and fly-on-the-wall footage, the documentary masterfully captures the perspectives and personalities of these young women. We see their initial excitement and nervousness as they take their first steps into the Girls State experiment, unsure of what to expect. Many are eager to prove themselves, build lasting friendships, and take the reins of leadership. Others, however, reveal their fears of failure, their uncertainty about their abilities, and their hesitations about confronting the challenges that lie ahead. As the Girls State experiment unfolds, the participants find themselves immersed in a simulated democracy, complete with mock elections, town hall meetings, and policy debates. They work tirelessly to build a functioning government, drafting constitutions, creating budgets, and negotiating with one another to pass legislation. Through these scenes, the documentary reveals the girls' growing proficiency in matters of governance and politics, as well as their developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. One of the most compelling aspects of "Girls State" lies in its nuanced exploration of the complexities and tensions inherent to leadership and democracy. As the participants navigate the intricacies of coalition-building, decision-making, and compromise, they confront the messy realities of power struggles, conflicting opinions, and the pursuit of personal interests. These moments are fraught with tension, emotion, and occasionally, humor. Through the participants' experiences, we also encounter a plethora of thought-provoking themes, including issues of sexism, racism, classism, and privilege. At times, the discussions and debates that arise feel disconcertingly familiar, echoing the very same debates and conflicts that have plagued American politics for centuries. The documentary raises essential questions about representation, access to power, and the ways in which societal biases can shape leadership and politics. One of the girls in the documentary, a bright and outspoken high school student named Sydney, offers a telling insight into the significance of this endeavor: "This is what democracy should look like. It's messy, it's hard work, but it's the best thing ever." As the participants strive to build a functioning government, they come to realize that democracy is not a fixed or static concept, but rather an ever-evolving process that demands ongoing effort and commitment. At the same time, "Girls State" also reveals the girls' vulnerability, their insecurities, and their personal struggles. Many of the participants grapple with self-doubt, uncertainty about their places in the world, and fears about their futures. We see the cracks in their confidence and the weight of expectation from family, friends, and society. These moments serve as powerful reminders that behind each of these ambitious and driven young women lies a complex, multifaceted individual with her own set of hopes, fears, and aspirations. Ultimately, "Girls State" is more than a compelling documentary or a thought-provoking exploration of democratic principles. It is an empowering tribute to the capacity and potential of these teenage girls to shape their own destinies, challenge the status quo, and forge a brighter future for themselves and others. Through their experiences, we are reminded of the limitless possibilities that arise when young people are given the opportunities to lead, to learn, and to create a better world. As the Girls State experiment comes to a close, we are left with lasting impressions of these remarkable young women, their resilience in the face of adversity, and their unwavering dedication to democracy and civic participation. "Girls State" is a testament to the strength and determination of its participants, and a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of democratic values and principles in the hands of inspired and empowered young leaders.