Dhruti Pathak (she/her) is a student advocate against book bans based in the Greater Houston area. A junior at Lawrence E. Elkins High School, she joined the fight against Christian nationalism by helping organize against a policy restricting access to diverse literature in her school district. 
Beyond grassroots activism, Dhruti has expanded her advocacy by placing first in the 2024 Americans United High School Student Essay Contest, further amplifying her voice on issues of religious freedom and the intersection of education and democracy. She is also a member of ACLU People Power, working to defend civil liberties and promote free expression.
Committed to equity and upholding democratic values, Dhruti plans to continue her activism in college while pursuing a future in public policy or law. She strives to advance policies that protect intellectual freedom, promote social justice, and uplift underrepresented communities.