It’s always an honor to welcome Sunflower Girls State to Lawrence.

About 300 Kansas high school seniors-to-be are participating this week in the annual program founded by the American Legion Auxiliary in 1939. During their week at Kansas University, they will run for office, hold elections and learn about how their government operates. A host of state and local officials will talk to the delegates about the importance of civic involvement whether that means running for office or being an active voter and volunteer.

The hands-on approach of Girls State — and its Boys State counterpart, which used to be held at KU but now is at Kansas State University — is a great way for youngsters to understand how government works and how to be more involved. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to interact with other young people and get a taste of life on the state’s two largest university campuses.

Now, perhaps more than ever, it’s important for young people to understand the workings of government and be willing to get involved. These are our future voters, elected officials and decision-makers and we wish them all well.