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John Locke Global Essay Prize 2026
Quade Kelley, Shortlisted (Politics)
Q: Is democracy in crisis?
* Original Essay:
"What They Burn First
Censorship, Algorithmic Capture, and the Democratic Crisis of the Unread Mind "
Shortlist from 100,227 contestants representing 183 countries
* *Essay will be available to view after winners are announced at the Awards Ceremony:
October 3, 2026 in London, England
Photo: 2025 presentation on the historical trajectory of censorship and its broad impact.
Testimonials
KEVIN LOVE FUND
BANK STREET COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
BANK STREET COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
"I have not encountered anyone quite like Quade. I have described him as a rising star, the rare student who operates not just above his age, but above the expectations of his entire field. More importantly, he uses that capacity entirely in service of others. In a generation of students who want to make a difference someday, Quade is mak
"I have not encountered anyone quite like Quade. I have described him as a rising star, the rare student who operates not just above his age, but above the expectations of his entire field. More importantly, he uses that capacity entirely in service of others. In a generation of students who want to make a difference someday, Quade is making one today."
- Sara Hahn
Co-Director of Education, Kevin Love Fund
BANK STREET COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
BANK STREET COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
BANK STREET COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Quade is a true innovator. He is constantly thinking about ways to promote young voices nationally and internationally. In 2025, he was instrumental in founding the inaugural Youth Choice Award for the Children's Book Committee, leading the organization, communication and implementation of this innovative development. His participation
Quade is a true innovator. He is constantly thinking about ways to promote young voices nationally and internationally. In 2025, he was instrumental in founding the inaugural Youth Choice Award for the Children's Book Committee, leading the organization, communication and implementation of this innovative development. His participation in other award communities, including the SLJ Mock Newbery in 2024, 2025 and 2026 has greatly enhanced the process the Young Ambassadors went through to develop the robust criteria for this new CBC Award.
He has overcome personal challenges and used books, mental health advocacy, and community service to find his leadership voice. We firmly believe that, because of his voice, more young people will be motivated to read.
We are profoundly grateful to him for all he has done and continues to do for the Children's Book Committee and readers nationally and internationally.
- Dr. Cynthia Weill
Director, Center for Children's Literature
Bank Street College of Education
CITY OF ENCINITAS
BANK STREET COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
CITY OF ENCINITAS
Quade’s leadership has redefined the Youth Commission. Today, under his leadership, the commission is the most dynamic and activated in its history. He successfully dismantled a culture of apathy and replaced it with a standard of active service, mentoring his fellow commissioners to reach their full potential.
Quade’s leadership style i
Quade’s leadership has redefined the Youth Commission. Today, under his leadership, the commission is the most dynamic and activated in its history. He successfully dismantled a culture of apathy and replaced it with a standard of active service, mentoring his fellow commissioners to reach their full potential.
Quade’s leadership style is defined by a commitment to lifting others up. He views challenges as catalysts for innovation rather than obstacles. Quade leads with a "listen-first" framework. He brings a kind, multi-disciplinary perspective to every room he enters. He has developed a profound understanding of the ecosystem between elected officials and city staff, recognizing that while technological innovation can assist with organization, nothing replaces the hard work of showing up. His effectiveness has earned him a seat at the table with the Mayor and City Council, where he is requested to execute special projects that benefit the entire Encinitas community.
- Margaret Hamer
Former Manager, City of Encinitas
Director, City of Vista Recreation & Community Services Director
MORGAN'S MESSAGE
ENCINITAS/ AMAKUSA JAPAN SISTER CITY DIPLOMAT
CITY OF ENCINITAS
"Quade is a force of positive change who lifts up others as he climbs. He leads with the efficiency of a seasoned executive and the empathy of a dedicated teammate. Whether in mental health, equity in athletics, or reading-driven educational reform, he leads with integrity and the unwavering belief that youth voices are not only important
"Quade is a force of positive change who lifts up others as he climbs. He leads with the efficiency of a seasoned executive and the empathy of a dedicated teammate. Whether in mental health, equity in athletics, or reading-driven educational reform, he leads with integrity and the unwavering belief that youth voices are not only important.
They are essential."
- Clare Kehoe
Co-Founder & Director of Education, Morgan's Message
ENCINITAS/ AMAKUSA JAPAN SISTER CITY DIPLOMAT
ENCINITAS/ AMAKUSA JAPAN SISTER CITY DIPLOMAT
ENCINITAS/ AMAKUSA JAPAN SISTER CITY DIPLOMAT
Quade's impact is quantifiable, he is the most active youth volunteer in our department's recent history. In 2024 the City nominated Quade for, and he received, state recognition as a Champion of the Community by the California Parks and Recreation Society.
Quade is not just a youth leader—he is a catalyst for change. In addition to his
Quade's impact is quantifiable, he is the most active youth volunteer in our department's recent history. In 2024 the City nominated Quade for, and he received, state recognition as a Champion of the Community by the California Parks and Recreation Society.
Quade is not just a youth leader—he is a catalyst for change. In addition to his civic leadership, Quade represented the City of Encinitas in our Sister City Exchange Program with Amakusa, Japan. Acting as an ambassador of cultural diplomacy, he built international connections that continue to shape his inclusive approach to leadership. He has since spoken at city meetings, collaborated on youth-led cultural projects, and helped ensure our parks and programs reflect the global community we serve.
He has already garnered the attention of professional athletes, educators, and civic leaders eager to support and his work. But what numbers cannot fully capture is Quade's heart-his sincere belief that every young person deserves a place to play, a reason to read, and a chance to be heard. His approach blends creativity with compassion, leadership with humility.
-Nicole White
Former City of Encinitas, Supervisor of Special Events & Projects, City of Encinitas
ATHLETES FOR HOPE
ENCINITAS/ AMAKUSA JAPAN SISTER CITY DIPLOMAT
ENCINITAS/ AMAKUSA JAPAN SISTER CITY DIPLOMAT
"He is a book finder and a vision maker. The way literature reaches a child emotionally is the very foundation of his psychological thesis for Reading Athlete. The stories will connect children to the people who shared them, and that is a deeply personal and foundational gift."
- Joy Le Couteur
Director of Athlete Engagement, Athletes For Hope