Senator John Hoeven today addressed the North Dakota Boys State Delegation at the 78th annual session in Wahpeton.

The senator outlined the importance of being an engaged member of society and shared of his personal experience attending Boys State. Delegates are selected to attend the weeklong program to develop leadership skills through participating in legislative sessions, court proceedings, disaster response exercises and additional activities simulating the structure of a state’s government.

“This annual learning experience for young men across the state provides them with a unique understanding of government and public service,” said Hoeven. “It helps expand the students’ knowledge of not only how our system of government functions, but also on the need for citizen participation.

“We live in the greatest nation our world has ever known, and with that privilege comes the responsibility for we the people to actively engage in the governance of our society.”

This year’s delegates include 75 high school boys who have completed either their junior or senior year of high school, as this year’s program includes last year’s session, which was canceled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

American Legion Boys State was founded in 1935 to teach participants the rights, privileges and responsibilities of citizens in regards to the operation of local, county and state governments. American Legion also sponsors Girls State, a separate yet similar program for young women.