PRESS RELEASE

PR26-108
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 12, 2026
Contact: sospress@sos.ca.gov
 

California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., Opens Applications for the 2026 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award
 

Sacramento, Calif. – California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., is encouraging young leaders across California to apply for the upcoming John Lewis Youth Leadership Award. Established in 2021 by the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS), this esteemed honor celebrates outstanding young Californians who exemplify leadership, community engagement, and commitment to social justice - principles that Congressman John Lewis dedicated his life to advancing.

"This award spotlights young people who display an unwavering dedication to civic engagement and a spirit of service to support all Californians—qualities that defined Congressman Lewis," said Secretary Weber. "His legacy of courage and advocacy for the underrepresented continues to inspire, and this recognition is a testament to the positive impact young leaders have on our society."

Named in honor of the late Civil Rights leader and Congressman John Lewis, the award recognizes his brave accomplishments in the Civil Rights Movement and his long-standing service in Congress, which have left an enduring impact on the nation’s history.

At 21, Congressman Lewis emerged as a champion of racial equality and civil rights. His work as a founding Freedom Rider, an organizer of the March on Washington, and a survivor of Bloody Sunday showed the impact young people can have. He carried that spirit into Congress, continuing to stir “good trouble” and shaping the nation’s dialogue as its moral compass. Congressman Lewis remained a steadfast advocate for equality and justice until his death in 2020.

To qualify, nominees must:

  • -Be a resident of California
  • -Be between the ages of 18 to 25 at the time of the award presentation.
  • -Be recognized in their community for being civic-minded and improving the quality of life in their community. Their community must be in California.
  • -Show a meaningful commitment to address civil rights issues, and to authentically bring about positive change in their community.

Applications for the John Lewis Youth Leadership Award are now open, and interested individuals can submit their applications by 5 p.m. on Monday, September 14, 2026.

The California Secretary of State’s office will announce the winner of the 2026 NASS John Lewis Youth Leadership Award in December.

To learn more about the award in California, visit: https://www.sos.ca.gov/administration/youth-leadership-award.

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