Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, Representative Sherry Dorsey Walker, Former Rep. Ruth Briggs King and others attend Girl Scouts' Democracy Event
Oct. 26, 2024 - Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay is excited to report the astounding success of our inaugural Founder's Day Feature Event, "The Promise of Democracy: Empowering our World Together," which took place on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the University of Delaware's Clayton Hall. The event was hosted in partnership with the League of Women Voters of Delaware and was made possible by donations from M&T Bank, Wilmington University, and other generous sponsors.
This inspiring event brought together over 50 Girl Scouts from across the region, local elected officials, and community leaders to celebrate civic engagement and empower today's girls to make their voices heard. Girl Scouts were also encouraged to dress up as inspiring women of history. We're thrilled to report we had trailblazers like Girl Scouts' founder Juliette Gordon Low, former Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Astronaut Mae Jemison, and other history-making women in attendance.
The event featured keynote speaker Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long and a panel discussion with local officials, including State Representative Sherry Dorsey Walker, Former Representative Ruth Briggs King, military veteran and community advocate Debbie Harrington, Melanie Ross Levin, and Reverend Dr. A'Shellarien Addison. These leaders shared their experiences in public service, discussed the importance of civic participation, and answered questions from Girl Scouts and attendees. The underlying message of the day was that amazing things are possible through civic action, especially when we work together. Additionally, Girl Scouts heard special virtual messages of support from Senators Chris Coons and Tom Carper.
Following the keynote address and remarks by Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay's Board Chair, Temeka Easter Rice, and Chief Executive Officer, Claudia Pena Porretti, Girl Scouts got to work on hands-on activities. Activities were designed in partnership with the League of Women Voters of Delaware to educate Girl Scouts about the democratic process, local, state and national government, and leveraging their leadership skills to make an impact. Girls practiced letter writing, played democracy jeopardy, and voted for Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay's favorite cookie. When the votes were in, it was the newest cookie - Adventurefuls - that won the race!
With a presidential election just days away, it was the perfect time for Girl Scouts to engage in activities that foster teamwork, critical thinking, and confidence. After a combination of remarks from inspiring female leaders and exciting hands-on activities, Girl Scouts left the event prepared to be the leaders of tomorrow and having earned their Democracy badge!
“Empowering Girl Scouts to understand and participate in democracy is a vital part of their Girl Scout experience,” said Claudia Pena Porretti, Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay. “This event not only allowed them to learn from our elected officials but also encouraged them to envision themselves as future leaders in their communities.”
"The Promise of Democracy: Empowering our World Together" event included all current and prospective Girl Scouts (grades K-12).
Group Photo of Girl Scout attendees, GSCB CEO Claudia Pena Porretti, and volunteers from the League of Women Voters of Delaware.
Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long gives remarks to Girl Scout attendees and volunteers at The Promise of Democracy: Empowering Our World Together event.
Panelists (from L to R): Melanie Ross Levin, Rev. Dr. A'Shellarien Addison, Colonel (Ret.) Debbie Harrington, former Representative Ruth Briggs King, and State Representative Sherry Dorsey Walker.
Event volunteers from The League of Women Voters of Delaware.
State Representative Sherry Dorsey Walker poses with Girl Scout dressed as Astronaut Mae Jemison.
Girl Scout attendees participate in hands-on learning activities designed in partnership with The League of Women Voters of Delaware.
