Democracy thrives when young voices are heard, and on Saturday, March 8, more than 500 Girl Scouts from across Wisconsin stepped into the heart of state government at Girl Scout Day at the Capitol. Engaging directly with state elected officials and community leaders, they experienced firsthand how civic engagement shapes the future.
Recognizing the impact of Girl Scouts in fostering public service and empowering young leaders, Governor Tony Evers issued a proclamation emphasizing the importance of civic engagement, the crucial role Girl Scouts play in developing future leaders, and declaring March 9-15 as Girl Scout Week in Wisconsin.
Held during National Girl Scout Week, National Civic Learning Week, and International Women’s Day, the event empowered Girl Scouts to understand their civic rights, explore the legislative process, and witness the real-world impact of active participation. Through conversations with elected officials and immersive experiences, these future leaders learned about democracy while actively engaging in it.
“When young people see themselves as part of the democratic process, they step into leadership and civic engagement with confidence,” said Lisa Smith, CEO of Badgerland Girl Scouts. “That’s the lasting impact of experiences like Girl Scout Day where youth engage with government firsthand and discover the power of their voices. Whether they’re speaking up on issues that matter to them or organizing community service projects these Girl Scouts are already shaping the future. Opportunities like this spark a lifelong commitment to civic engagement, empowering Girl Scouts to lead with purpose today and into the future.”
Throughout the day, Girl Scouts earned civics badges and took part in an engaging expo, where elected officials and volunteers from the Wisconsin League of Women Voters discussed the role of government and the power of civic action. One of the most impactful moments was an interactive voting experience, where Girl Scouts cast ballots on youth-centered issues using real voting machines — giving them a hands-on lesson in democracy and the importance of making their voices count.
The event culminated in a high-energy rally in the Capitol’s first-floor rotunda, where Girl Scouts took the stage alongside lawmakers to share their advocacy efforts and speak on the issues that matter most to them. Following the rally, they took their message beyond the Capitol, marching around Capitol Square with advocacy signs in hand—a powerful demonstration that democracy is not just something to learn about, but something to actively participate in.
With the governor’s proclamation and direct engagement with state legislators and civic leaders, Girl Scout Day at the Capitol reinforced a powerful truth: the future of democracy starts with informed, engaged young citizens.
The proclamation was presented to Wisconsin Girl Scouts at the event by Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez, a Lifetime Member of Girl Scouts and a troop leader. She reflected on the profound influence of Girl Scouts on her own journey, sharing, “Whether it was in public service as a Peace Corps volunteer, [Girl Scouts] was why I became a nurse, and it’s why I ran for office — to make sure I can serve my community.”
As today’s young leaders step forward, experiences like Girl Scout Day at the Capitol ensure they have the knowledge and confidence to shape the future.
