As a high school social studies teacher in North Philadelphia, Ant 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.

Legal Case

Following the death of George Floyd the Department of Justice charged over 300 protesters with federal charges amid nationwide protests. Ant 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, Ant was 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 would face a mandatory minimum of 7 years in prison.  

After his arrest by federal officers, a huge outpouring of community support mobilized to protest the arrest. Ant 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.

At his sentencing on November 21 2023, Ant’s friends and supporters had to be packed into a second overflow courtroom. U.S. District Judge Juan Sanchéz heard emotional pleas that Ant not be sent to prison from family, students and coworkers. Sanchéz sentenced him to a year and a day in prison, and two years probation on top of the three years of house arrest already served, and monetary restitution for the burnt police cruiser. Ant’s felony conviction also bars him from teaching for 10 years.