Age ain’t nothing but a number when it comes to maturity. It’s all about life experience, being sharp and having that emotional IQ. This debate isn’t just a local thing—it’s worldwide. If we all focus on growing personally and paying attention to what really matters, society as a whole can level up. We should make this a priority, especially for all the brainiacs out there.
‘Girl’s State’ by Jesse Moss and Amanda McBaine is about high school girls from Missouri getting into a mock government program that lasts a whole week. These girls dive into democracy, how the government works, and all those nook and crannies. In 2020, the directors did a similar thing but with boys in Texas, called the American Legion Boys State.
These programs are summer camps for high school juniors, where they learn about leadership and citizenship. The American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary host these events in all fifty states, with separate programs for boys and girls. In these programs, the participants get split into groups like cities or towns. They’re then assigned to one of two political parties, which might not be like the ones we know in real life.
There are elections and selections to run the pretend government. People in these “cities” vote for local, county, and even state officials like governor and lieutenant governor. Besides voting, there are other roles like court jury and judges, but they’re chosen differently.
Right from the start of your streaming, you’ll see how crucial it is to talk about what’s going on in society today. Ignoring these issues won’t make them disappear, but talking about them can shine a light on possible solutions. In the program, the court juries tackle important topics like climate change, privacy, abortion, gun laws, LGBTQ rights, finances, and even hot topics like the Johnny Depp vs. Amber Heard case.
Cecilia Bartin, a strong participant, talks about how there’s this stereotype that only guys can be loud and opinionated in politics. When women speak up, they often get shut down or humiliated. Cecilia talks about how girls often feel pressured to pretend to be someone they’re not just to fit in. She also calls out society for judging girls based on their clothes and bodies, even when they have every right to dress how they want.
It’s not fair that girls with curves get shamed for their bodies. She also points out a double standard: when boys speak up about something wrong, people listen more, but when girls do the same, they’re often ignored or silenced. This idea that girls should be quiet and submissive just because they’re girls is outdated and needs to go. Everyone should be able to speak their mind without fear.
Brooke Taylor, another teen in the program, brings up an interesting point about women’s empowerment. While it’s great to support each other, sometimes it can send the wrong message. It’s important to recognize that girls aren’t inherently weak and needy. Instead of assuming they need help, we should focus on finding those who genuinely do.
Brooke’s words in the documentary really make you stop and think. The documentary also dives into some deep topics like law, racial conflict, and human behaviour. One girl makes a powerful statement about how the Constitution might not be so relevant to today’s world.
It also talks about the struggles of black people in a society dominated by white people. Tochi’s comment that “these girls come from tiny towns where I might be the first black person they’ve ever met” makes you stop and consider the challenges faced by minorities in such settings.
The film isn’t just about politics or society; it’s about self-discovery and uncovering what lies within you. By the end, hundreds of girls have discovered more about themselves. It’s a thought-provoking narrative that gives you fresh ideas and a new lens to see the world. It is entertaining and engaging and talks about the harsh realities of women’s lives.
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Verdict - 7/10
7/10