30 people in their 30s who inspired us in 2017

From Donald Glover being the first black director to win an Emmy for comedy to Danica Roem becoming the first openly transgender legislator in the US, there are plenty of people in their 30s who inspired us this year.

Here are 30 public figures who challenge the rest of us to try harder, do better, and give more.

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Colin Kaepernick, 30, chose to kneel during the national anthem at a football game, sparking a nationwide debate on racial injustice.

With his decision to take a knee instead of stand for the national anthem to protest police violence against African Americans, Kaepernick thrust himself into the middle of a nationwide debate on racial injustice. While thousands of Americans screamed at him to stand, claiming that he was disrespecting the flag and veterans, Kaepernick held his ground. Slowly, more and more people joined the movement.

Kaepernick was one of the runners-up for Time's Person of the Year, and named GQ's Citizen of the Year this year in response to how powerful his movement became.

Ashley Graham, 30, continued to push back against unrealistic body expectations.

Ashley Graham has been changing the face of modeling since she first appeared in a controversial Lane Bryant commercial in 2010. And while 2016 might have been her breakout year, after being the first curvy model to appear on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Graham is still effecting change in 2017.

Graham has proven herself to a strong voice for body positivity. She hosted Miss USA 2017 and asked why someone who is not stick-thin hasn't won the pageant yet. She also called out Victoria's Secret for not having any plus-sized models in their annual fashion show.

Matt McGorry, 31, is an active feminist who spoke out about how men can "actively be part of the solution."

Matt McGorry is best known for his roles on "Orange is the New Black" and "How to Get Away With Murder." But he's also a vocal feminist and a social justice advocate.

Recently, McGorry has been speaking out against the climate in Hollywood towards women. He spoke at a CNN town hall event where he said men have to re-educate themselves so they can "actively be part of the solution." He also wrote an essay for Medium in October where he details his personal relationship with feminism, becoming a better ally, rape culture, and education.