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Girls State participants will wear Montana Supreme Court justices’ robes

Posted at 9:57 AM, Jun 14, 2019
and last updated 2019-06-14 12:00:28-04

HELENA — More than 100 young women filled the State Capitol on Thursday for Montana’s American Legion Auxiliary Girls State events.

Over the past few days, the girls have campaigned for elected positions in a model version of Montana government.

Those who were elected to the Supreme Court had a unique opportunity. They are wearing the robes previously worn by Montana’s female Supreme Court justices.

In the Old Supreme Court Chamber at the state Capitol, Montana Supreme Court Justice Beth Baker swore in the seven justices of the 2019 Girls State.

Faith Madill of Great Falls said she’s humbled to wear the same robes as such influential women.

“It’s honestly such an honor,” said Madill. “When we came in and they told us we were going to be able to wear the same robes that were previously worn by chief justices and Supreme Court justices, I was shocked because I didn’t know I would have had such a great opportunity.”

Madill was elected chief justice by her peers on a promise of making rulings with leadership, equity, open-mindedness and patience.

“I think those four pillars reflect very well what a judge should bring to the bench in any court,” said Justice Baker.

The Montana Supreme Court justice said it was a privilege and honor to participate in Girls State and speak with the young women.

“To look out in the House Chambers of Montana and see a sea of female faces is [a] pretty fun experience,” said Justice Baker. “As I told the girls, it’s important for all young people to understand our government and how it works, and I think it’s very important to get young women involved in civic leadership.”

The Girls State justices will hear a mock trial on Thursday and Friday involving a girl who died in a hazing ritual. It will be up to them to determine if the mock death should be ruled a homicide or an accident.

-Reported by John Riley/MTN News