Promote the Vote: A Guide to Girl Scout Advocacy
Girl Scouts are known for their commitment to making the world a better place. By taking an interest in voting and civics, they can channel their passion into actionable change and bring about improvements in their communities and beyond. By actively participating in civic life, Girl Scouts can break down barriers and create a society that aligns with their values.
Learning about the voting process and civic engagement can provide a platform for Girl Scouts to stand up for causes they believe in. By learning about candidates, issues, and proposed solutions, they can make informed decisions and champion initiatives that resonate with their sense of justice and fairness. Democracies thrive when citizens actively participate in governance! By encouraging young Girl Scouts to embrace voting and civic engagement, we nurture a generation that will uphold democratic principles and safeguard the future of democracy itself.
Through Civics badges Girl Scouts gain an in-depth understanding of how local, state, and federal government works, equipping them to be voters, activists, and even political leaders. They also research their own government officials and are encouraged to meet them. GSUSA's Promote the Vote service project, working with the League of Women Voters, offers an even deeper dive into our nation's election process.
This summer, Norfolk City Council member and Girl Scout alum Andria P. McClellan (pictured above) visited Camp Apasus in Norfolk and Camp Outback at A Place for Girls in Chesapeake during the Democracy Week camp sessions to speak to campers about civic engagement, including the importance of the vote. Girl Scout Senior Martha Ann, who serves on the Council’s Advocacy Committee, attended the program held at A Place for Girls and had the pleasure of introducing Andria at the event and then interviewing her afterward.
In a world where change is constant, and voices yearn to be heard, becoming an active citizen and voting — or helping get out the vote — emerges as a powerful tool to shape the future. By taking the initiative to learn about voting and civics, Girl Scouts can unlock a world of opportunities to create positive change, foster democracy, and contribute to the betterment of society.
Be sure to follow Girl Scout Election Guidelines in planning your activities.
