When I first introduced Robert E. Gray to the Clutch Justice community, I talked about a man with a vision: standing on corners, waving at passing cars, sparking conversations that mainstream campaigns ignore.
But what I didn’t know then was just how much work Robert was already doing; not for recognition, not for money, but for impact.
And now, thanks to a few heartfelt emails, I know there’s a lot more to the story.
From the Streets to the Schools: A Messenger for Change
Robert Gray isn’t just campaigning.
He’s been out in the community for years, doing the kind of frontline work most politicians only show up for when cameras roll.
He’s a member of the Power Group, speaking in high schools across Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. His mission? Help kids navigate away from gangs, guns, and drugs and toward purpose. He uses his own lived experience to dismantle stigma and show students that even the roughest paths can lead to redemption.
He also speaks at:
- WMU Nursing and Kellogg Community College about trauma, addiction, and stigma
- KPEP (a reentry facility) to men returning home from incarceration
- The Recovery Institute of Southwest Michigan, where he serves on the board ISK’s Recipient Rights Advisory Committee, helping advocate for mental health rights
And here’s the part that might shock you: he does it all for free.
“Before they judge me on my story—one of gangs and drugs and street life—let them know it’s saving lives and giving back to my community.”
Nearly a Degree, Fully a Leader
Gray also wanted people to know he attended Western Michigan University from 2014 to 2018, studying pre-marketing at the Haworth College of Business. He completed all but 12 credits, earning a 3.06 GPA and still proudly identifying as a Bronco.
Boots on the Ground, Booths in the Community
He’s not hiding behind press releases or social media posts. He has a booth, and he’s out in the community saying, “Need to talk? Let’s talk.”
This campaign isn’t built on polished consultants or big-dollar donors. It’s built on truth, humility, lived experience, and relentless dedication to people who are too often ignored, those navigating recovery, reentry, and resistance.
Why This Matters
We live in a time when most candidates talk “community engagement” but won’t return a constituent’s email. Robert Gray has lived the very challenges Kalamazoo faces: violence, addiction, incarceration, and systemic neglect. He doesn’t just understand those issues, he survived them, and he spends his time helping others survive too.
And now, he wants to bring that spirit of service into City Hall.
Want To Help?
- Share this article and get the word out!
- Contact his campaign manager (and daughter) and volunteer here.
- Vote for Robert on November 4, 2025
🗳️ Check out who’s running for local office in 2025:
MLive Election Coverage – Kalamazoo Area Candidates
📬 Know someone like Robert E. Gray running for office? Contact Clutch.
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