Since 1946, students from across Minnesota have participated in the Minnesota Youth in Government (YIG) program and gained hands-on experience running a state model government. Students in YIG aren't spectators; they elect their own leaders, debate their own ideas, and support policies and laws that highlight their values.

The program starts in the fall when students in grades 8-12 join or form a YIG delegation at their school or community organization. Delegations meet regularly to learn about state government, practice skills, select a program area, and prepare for the conference. High school students will choose to serve as legislators, judges, attorneys, lobbyists, media representatives, or cabinet members. Eighth grade students participate as members of the Leadership Corps where they experience and explore all of the YIG program areas.

At the end of October, delegates from all over the state attend an in-person pre-conference training event called LAUNCH to help prepare for the four-day conference in January. 

On Thursday, January 9, 2025 to Sunday, January 12, 2025, delegations from across Minnesota and Western Wisconsin will come together at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Minneapolis and the Minnesota State Capitol to convene the 71st annual Minnesota Youth in Government session! 

Interested in joining or forming a YIG delegation at your school or community organization? 

Check out the Active Delegations List to see if there is a delegation in your community or reach out to YouthVoice@ymcanorth.org for more information on next steps and how to get started. 

LEADERSHIP CORPS

8th Grade 

Explore all YIG program areas by creating bills, arguing court cases, and writing media articles. 

LEGISLATURE

9-12th Grade 

Serve as a State Senator or Representative and write bills on the issues of your choosing, debate them in committee hearings and on the floor, and vote to pass them.

COURTS

9-12th Grade

Attorneys research cases and present arguments in a mock trial or appeals case. Judges preside over trials and decide important legal questions.

NATIONAL ISSUES FORUM

10-12th Grade 

Research, present, and debate a policy solution to a current national or international issue of your choosing. 

LOBBYING

10-12th Grade 

Advocate for legislation on behalf of special interest groups.

MEDIA

10-12th Grade

Uphold the right of the people to a free press by writing articles, producing broadcasts, and curating digital media content. 

Youth in Government 2025 Program Season: 

Conference:

Date: Thursday, January 9, 2025 to Sunday, January 12, 2025

Location: Hilton Hotel in downtown Minneapolis and the Minnesota State Capitol

LAUNCH Pre-Conference Training Event:

Date: Saturday, October 26, 2024

Location: Fridley High School

Time: 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM

Delegates should plan to arrive at Fridley High School between 9:00 AM - 9:45 AM to check in by delegation. An adult advisor must be present. 

Cost

Early Registration Window and Program Fee: 

August 29 - October 11, 2024: $539

Delegates that register during the early registration window will increase their chances of being placed in their top program area choice. 

Regular Registration Window and Program Fee: 

October 12 - November 1, 2024: $559

Delegations may choose to add additional fees for local delegation costs. Ask your delegation director for total program costs as well as how to apply for financial assistance.