Luke writes a note at Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library

ABOUT LUKE

Bio

Luke Lamour’s advocacy is rooted in the belief that communication, when used thoughtfully, can move systems and people alike. Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Luke's journey in civics began at the age of four during a family weekend getaway to Washington, D.C. He was fascinated with the monuments of the American Presidents and sought to learn about the leaders behind the monuments. Fascinated by the immense, complex societal change that can be done through a person's calling to public service, Luke decided to dive into an unexpected venture: writing a book. At the age of nine, Luke published his first book, Jimmy Carter: The Peanut Life to the Presidency, fostering an unprecedented child to child entry point into history for young readers across America.

Luke's commitment to spread a passion for civics, history and leadership soon evolved into new ventures. As a Scholastic Kid Reporter, Luke reached more than 25 million young readers by interviewing leaders from politicians, locally and nationally, to conservationists and creative designers. On the flip side of asking questions, Luke learned about his passion of answering societal questions through his award-winning performances in parliamentary debate from the Yale Urban Debate League to the Debate Society of Berkeley and his leadership in multiple advocacy groups such as the Connecticut Commission of Human Rights and Opportunities' (CHRO) Kids Court Academy, Connecticut Speech & Action, Beinecke Library Ambassadors Program. As a communicator via storytelling, Luke also created a YouTube channel called SpicyMotion that has gained over 600 subscribers & been recognized by the New York Times in the Annual 2025 Summer Reading Contest.

(Top left image) Luke wins first debate speaker award. (Top right image) On Election Day, as a Scholastic Kids Reporter, Luke spoke with voters at a polling place in Connecticut. (Bottom image) Luke shares his first book with an engaged young audience.

Taken together, these experiences reflect a consistent principle: communication is not merely self-expression, but a responsibility to others. By weaving advocacy, storytelling, and creativity, Luke works toward a world in which more voices are heard and more people are empowered to speak, strengthening civic dialogue and collective problem-solving in the process.