Nominate a Community Member for the John Lewis Youth Leadership Award — 2027

There's a place for you here.

Do you know a young Iowan who leads with courage, service, and integrity? The Iowa Secretary of State's office is opening nominations for the John Lewis Youth Leadership Award on January 1, 2027 — and we want our community to know about it.

The award was established by the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) following Congressman John Lewis' death, and it honors the work he did over his lifetime. In Iowa, we celebrate the life and legacy of Congressman Lewis by recognizing two outstanding individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to civil rights, leadership, and social justice. The award honors young leaders who make a difference in their communities through service, leadership, and civic engagement — inspired by Congressman Lewis' lifelong commitment to voting rights and youth involvement in democracy.

Who can be nominated

An Iowa resident, age 25 or younger. Nominees must be Iowa residents, age 25 or younger.

Recognized for leadership and positive community impact. Nominees are recognized in their community for being civic-minded and improving the quality of life around them.

Committed to civic engagement and civil rights. Nominees show a meaningful commitment to addressing civil rights issues, including voting rights, and to authentically bringing about positive change in their community.

How to nominate

Nominations open January 1, 2027. Visit the Iowa Secretary of State's John Lewis Youth Leadership Award page for the nomination form and full details: sos.iowa.gov — John Lewis Youth Leadership Award. You can also scan the QR code on the flyer above.

Being recognized in this way adds immense value to a young person's future applications — for college, post-graduate studies, trade school, or the workforce. If someone in your life fits this description, consider nominating them — and please share this opportunity with others who may know strong nominees.

Questions about the process? Contact the Secretary of State's programs team at programs@sos.iowa.gov. This is a program of the National Association of Secretaries of State, through the Office of Iowa Secretary of State Paul D. Pate — shared here so our community can take part.