Who is Ant Smith?
Anthony Smith is a respected educator, a standout organizer, a powerful leader, and a beloved community member with a passion for making sure everyone around him is protected and thriving.
As a high school social studies teacher in North Philadelphia, he is known for the genuine connections he builds with his students inside and outside the classroom. He is an organizer and volunteer with multiple organizations throughout Philadelphia, and is a fixture at 60th and Market each Friday, where he serves free food to the community with Food Not Bombs Solidarity. His coworkers, students, colleagues, and fellow organizers praise him as an empathetic and reliable peacemaker who always advocates for underrepresented and disenfranchised community members.
Anthony has a positive impact in Philadelphia and beyond. To learn more about Ant, see these testimonies celebrating Ant’s powerful presence in people’s lives.
Educator. Dream it.
As an Educator Ant inspires his students to strive to become the best versions of themselves and emphasizes the importance of community involvement.
Community Member. Build it.
As a Community Member Ant takes pride in volunteer with various organizations around the city of Philadelphia and beyond.
Community Leader. Grow it.
As a Community Leader Ant serves and a voice for those who are unable to advocate for themselves.
What Happened?
Anthony was arrested on politically motivated charges as part of a concerted effort to suppress the Black Lives Matter uprisings, and to undermine those with powerful voices calling for justice.
On October 26th, 2020, Anthony was arrested and taken from his home by federal officers based on his alleged involvement in the arson of a police vehicle during a Black Lives Matter protest in May, 2020. If convicted, he will face a mandatory minimum of 7 years in prison.
Following his arrest by federal officers, a huge outpouring of community support mobilized to protest the arrest. Anthony received over 70 character letters attesting to his selflessness and dedication to serving his community. The school where he works and the organizations where he volunteers his time immediately released statements to express their support. A social media campaign focused on freeing Ant quickly gained national traction.
Anthony was released pre trial and is on a location monitoring program until his court date, which is set for September 2021.