In the student-run Junior State, and at The Junior Statesmen Summer Schools and summer Symposia, participants learn statesmanship as they engage in political discourse. They cultivate democratic leadership skills, challenge one another to think critically, advocate their own opinions, develop respect for opposing views, and learn to rise above self-interest to promote the public good. Since 1934, the nonprofit Junior Statesmen Foundation ( JSF ) and the Junior State of America ( JSA ) have helped over 500, 000 student leaders acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to be active, informed and responsible citizens, voters and statesmen. We are committed to developing a diverse cross section of young leaders throughout the entire country.