Youth activism celebrated with John Lewis Youth Leadership Award

Nominations for the 2023 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award to recognize young people in Iowa for their meaningful commitment to addressing civil rights issues are now open.

The award was established in 2021 as a way for each state to honor gifted, civic-minded young people who have demonstrated leadership abilities, according to a news release from the Office of Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate. Two individuals from each state are honored each year for their impact in their communities.

The award is named after John Lewis, a civil rights activist and politician who served in the U.S. House of Representatives for Georgia’s 5th congressional district from 1987 until his death in 2020.

Throughout his career, Lewis remained a strong advocate for voting rights and constantly encouraged young people to actively participate in the democratic process. By establishing the John Lewis Leadership Youth Award, the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) ensures that his legacy lives on, according to a news release.

“Our office is driven by three guiding principles — service, participation, and integrity — and we are thrilled to be able to honor young Iowans each year that exemplify these principles in their communities,” Pate said in a news release. “I look forward to learning more about the hard work and exciting ideas coming out of Iowa’s youth and honoring these civic leaders with this respected award.”

The impact of the John Lewis Youth Leadership Award extends far beyond the recipients themselves. By acknowledging and celebrating youth activism, the award inspires other young individuals to get involved and make a difference in their own communities. It sends a powerful message that age is not a barrier to creating change and that every voice matters in shaping the future of our nation.

Nominations for the John Lewis Youth Leadership Award are open to Iowa residents who are 25 years old and younger for their meaningful commitment to addressing civil rights issues and bringing about authentic change in their communities.

All nominations will be reviewed by the Office of the Iowa Secretary of State. Nominations close Oct. 6, and recipients will be recognized in December.

Nomination forms are available at sos.iowa.gov/Initiatives/JohnLewisYouthAward.html

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