Every day, we see young people across the country testifying against book bans, advocating for inclusive school policies, rallying their communities against abortion bans and so much more to advance a vision for inclusive religious freedom, church-state separation and the issues that depend on them. And Americans United wants to celebrate them!
We invite you to nominate a youth leader you know for the 2024 David Norr Youth Activist Award by January 12, 2024. Nominees could be grassroots activists, student leaders, plaintiffs, elected officials, storytellers or another young person (or group of young people) who has demonstrated leadership and courage in taking action to protect and advance church-state separation in their community.
Our most recent award recipients include Ramya Sinha, whose outspoken support of AU client Gregg Tucker was instrumental in shining a light on discrimination at Ramya’s school, and AU client Irish 4 Reproductive Health, a student-led group that challenged the University of Notre Dame’s denial of birth control coverage.
Public call for nominees
Named in honor of the late David Norr, a staunch advocate and supporter of Americans United for over 25 years, this award goes to an individual or group who goes above and beyond to advocate for the separation of church and state. While it’s not a new award, this is the first time we’ve issued a public call for nominations to give our communities the opportunity to uplift deserving young activists.
The winner of the David Norr Youth Activist Award will receive a paid trip to attend the Summit for Religious Freedom in Washington, DC in April 2024, where they will receive the award live on stage.
Photo: Ramya Sinha, 2022 recipient of the David Norr Youth Activist Award, with Americans United President and CEO Rachel Laser
