Applications are now open for the 2024 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award in Illinois. This honor, named after the revered civil rights leader and Congressman John Lewis, is aimed at young individuals aged 18 to 25 who have demonstrated outstanding civic engagement. Secretary Alexi Giannoulias emphasized that this award, in collaboration with the National Association of Secretaries of State, seeks to continue Lewis’ legacy of advocacy for equality, freedom, and justice. Last year’s awardee, Dasha Pates, was celebrated for enhancing access to legal resources in her community. Nominations are open to the public, recognizing young leaders who are making significant contributions to their communities. For details on how to apply or nominate, visit the official website at www.ilsos.gov/JohnLewisAward. The deadline to apply for the award is November 11, 2024.
The John Lewis Youth Leadership Award was established by the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) to honor the late Congressman John Lewis and his extraordinary accomplishments throughout his career. Congressman Lewis advocated for civil and voting rights and encouraged young people to participate in the democratic process.
“John Lewis dedicated his life to bringing equality, freedom and justice to everyone and altered the course of history for the better,” Giannoulias said. “In partnership with the National Association of Secretaries of State, I could not be more excited to recognize a young Illinoisan who has been inspired to carry on the mission and legacy of this iconic freedom fighter.”
Dasha Pates was last year’s inaugural recipient and earned the award through her work improving access to legal services in Kane County. Working with JusticeCorps, she provided disenfranchised residents of Kane County with legal information and procedural guidance at the Kane County Law Library & Self-Help Legal Center.
“Receiving the inaugural John Lewis Youth Leadership Award has been a life-changing experience for me,” Pates said.
Application Process
- A successful applicant to Illinois’ JLYLA process must include:
- Nominator Form: The Nominator Form must be completed by an adult who can speak with knowledge regarding the nominee’s social justice work.
- Nominee Form: The nominee must complete the Nominee Form, explaining in their own words the social justice work they have conducted.
- Exhibits: At least two and up to 10 exhibits must be attached to showcase the nominee’s social justice work. Exhibits can include photos, posters, data analytics, support letters and any other material substantiating the nominee’s work.
- All applications, including both forms and exhibits, must be submitted electronically to [email protected] by Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, at 5 p.m.
- Nominees must be Illinois residents between the ages of 18 and 25 as of Monday, Nov. 11, 2024.
- The winner will be announced at a ceremony hosted by Secretary Giannoulias in December.
- Successful nominees will demonstrate committed advocacy efforts in support of civil and human rights, such as the right to vote, fair access to resources and opportunities, and freedom from discrimination and prejudice. Nominees must demonstrate empathy, the ability to influence others and the courage to confront challenges. Successful nominees will showcase work that increases awareness of social problems while identifying and promoting solutions.
For questions regarding the 2024 ILSOS John Lewis Youth Leadership Award, please email [email protected] or call (312) 814-1148.
