VANCOUVER — Secretary of State Steve Hobbs announced last month that Charles Johnson, an 18-year-old student at the Washington State School for the Blind, received one of two 2024 John Lewis Youth Leadership Awards.
University of Puget Sound student Iliana Barnes Diaz, 21, also received an award.
“These remarkable individuals are making a real difference in their communities,” Hobbs said. “Their work ensures that more people — especially those from underrepresented communities — have a voice in our democracy. It is an honor to recognize their contributions and celebrate their leadership.”
Johnson is a passionate advocate for accessibility and inclusion for blind and low-vision youth, particularly in the electoral process, according to a press release from the secretary of state’s office. He worked with the Office of the Secretary of State to develop accessible materials for Washington’s Student Mock Election program, leading to the first-ever fully accessible mock election at his school. His senior project focuses on researching and addressing barriers to youth voter engagement.
Johnson also founded The Green Beings, an environmental club that has implemented sustainability initiatives and received recognition for its efforts. As an EarthGen Youth Fellow, he has also championed inclusion in climate justice discussions.
The recipients were recognized at an award luncheon at the Secretary of State’s Office on March 13.
