Brittany Packnett is not only a strong advocate for social justice, but she has become a significant protester, activist, and educator in St. Louis.

Packnett, 33, received a Bachelor’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis before earning her Master’s degree in elementary education from American University in Washington, D.C

In her article “Black Lives Matter Isn’t Just a Hashtag Anymore,” Packnett stated that “bringing a spirit of protest into the halls of power presents an inherent challenge.”

Giving a new face to social action, Packnett help the voices of the Ferguson protestors be heard, as well as others’ who desire to stand up against the violence, while striving for a change.

Packnett co-founded the police reform program Campaign Zero and was named as one of Time Magazine’s “12 New Faces of Black Leadership in 2015.” She is the executive director of Teach for America—St. Louis, and served on President Obama’s 21st Century Policing Task Force.

Before serving on President Obama’s 21st Century Policing Task Force, she received a call from the White House. Packnett explained how the first time the White House called her, she was at a protest standing up for those battling with marginalization.

Her career not only focuses on fighting against injustice in her local community, but, according to St. Louis Business Journal, “Packnett is also fighting for what it means to uphold various cultural values while bringing innovative teaching methods into the classroom.”

Ms. Ann Hammer, diversity coordinator and theology teacher at St. Joseph Academy in St. Louis, teaches the importance of social justice as well as how to be compelled to right the wrongs in our community just as Packnett does.

“The important works of Brittany Packnett keeps in the forefront that Black Lives Matter,” Hammer said.“Black Lives have dignity and they are our brothers and sisters; therefore, we can never forget that.”