FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 26, 2024

Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., Presented the John Lewis Youth Leadership Service Award to George Harris

Sacramento, Calif. – Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., presented the esteemed John Lewis Youth Leadership Service Award to George Harris on June 25, 2024, recognizing his outstanding contributions to civic engagement and voting accessibility throughout California. 

The John Lewis Youth Leadership Service Award, established by the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) in 2021, honors the legacy of Congressman John Lewis by celebrating young individuals under 25 who demonstrate exceptional commitment to civic service and leadership. 

George Harris, the Winter 2023 nominee for California, was selected for his exemplary dedication to improving voting access and his proactive efforts in civil rights and voting rights advocacy. Harris's journey in public service began in 2015 when he chaired the 79th District Youth Advisory Council, working closely with then-Assemblymember Shirley Weber to address local issues and educate the youth on legislative processes. 

Harris pursued higher education with a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a master's degree from California State University, Sacramento, both in Political Science. His academic endeavors were marked by award-winning research on the impact of voter ID laws on marginalized voters, earning accolades from the CSU Research Symposium and the CSU Sacramento Grand Slam competition. 

In his professional capacity, Harris served as a Policy Analyst in the Secretary of State’s Office, where he played a pivotal role in the Voter’s Choice Act, a statewide initiative aimed at increasing democratic access for over 17 million voters. His efforts included analyzing voter data, reviewing county election plans, and developing policy recommendations. Harris also contributed significantly to the SOS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) framework, enhancing awareness and initiatives within the agency. 

George Harris's commitment to community service extends beyond his professional achievements. As a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, he works with high schools to inspire students towards higher education. Currently, he continues his civic engagement as a Legislative Aide for Senator Nancy Skinner, representing the 9th Senate District. 

Secretary Weber expressed her appreciation for Harris’s track record of public service, stating, "George Harris exemplifies the spirit of the John Lewis Youth Leadership Service Award through his unwavering dedication to civic engagement and his tireless efforts to enhance voting accessibility for marginalized communities. His work is a testament to the positive impact young leaders can have on society."