Enchantment State News

Earlier this month, New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver awarded the 2024 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award to two young leaders from New Mexico. The ceremony took place in Santa Fe.

The awardees are Lila Quezada and Thanh Nguyen. Secretary Toulouse Oliver expressed her admiration for their efforts, stating, “I am thrilled to congratulate Lila Quezada and Thanh Nguyen for their extraordinary commitment to making a difference in their communities.”

The John Lewis Youth Leadership Award was created in 2021 by the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) under Secretary Toulouse Oliver’s leadership when she served as NASS President. The award recognizes young individuals who demonstrate leadership skills and a passion for social justice, aiming to improve community life.

Lila Quezada was nominated by Girls Inc. of Santa Fe. Her achievements include organizing events such as the 2020 3rd Congressional District Candidate Forum and advocating for a New Mexico bill on affirmative consent education. She has been involved with Girls Inc.’s Teen Leadership Council and participated in various advocacy roles.

Thanh Nguyen was nominated by the New Mexico Asian Family Center (NMAFC). She has shown leadership in civic engagement and gender-based violence prevention within specific communities. In 2024, she facilitated discussions on several critical issues, including voter registration and reproductive justice.

Both recipients will be recognized at an awards ceremony during the 2025 NASS Winter Conference in Washington, D.C., alongside other state honorees.

The John Lewis Youth Leadership Award commemorates Congressman John Lewis's contributions to civil rights and public service. His activism began with his involvement as one of the original Freedom Riders in 1961 and continued throughout his life until his passing in 2020.