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Carey Whitfield: A Lifetime of Advocacy in Battle Creek

BCTRHT Team

Throughout his life, Carey Whitfield has demonstrated the impact of consistent, thoughtful action. Known for his work as the former president of the Battle Creek NAACP chapter, Carey’s contributions extend far beyond his role in the organization. His efforts have transformed the lives of those he directly helped and the landscape of racial equity and justice in Battle Creek. But his journey from System Owner Distribution Planning and Performance Engineer to one of Battle Creek’s most influential advocates didn’t happen overnight.


As a child growing up in inner-city Detroit, Carey witnessed the Detroit riots of 1967, as well as military patrols and curfews during moments of intense social unrest. These experiences fueled his desire to seek change. His frustration with the systemic racism toward Black people and other communities of color became a catalyst for his activism.


“I didn’t envision being the next Martin Luther King Jr. or Malcolm X,” said Carey. “I just didn’t appreciate the way Black people were treated.”


That frustration turned into action when Carey joined the NAACP Detroit chapter while attending the University of Detroit as an engineering student. But when he moved to Battle Creek and began working for Consumers Energy, his journey as a community leader took shape.


At work and within the broader community, Carey became a trusted figure known for his ability to listen to people's problems and help them find solutions. "It's all about listening," he says. "Listening to their stories and determining how we can assist them in getting a fair outcome." His reputation for fairness and empathy earned him the position of president of the Battle Creek NAACP in 1996, where he would make an even more significant impact.


As a member, Carey served on the NAACP’s Legal Redress Committee, helping countless individuals navigate discrimination, wrongful termination, and inequitable treatment based on race. His role allowed him to assist people in regaining their dignity through legal avenues and gave him the platform to push for broader, systemic changes.


One of his most impactful programs was the Heritage Quiz Bowl, an initiative that invites students from all backgrounds to unite, compete, and learn about Black history. Beyond education, Carey’s work also sought to bridge gaps between communities. He played an instrumental role in strengthening relationships between law enforcement and local youth, organizing programs that encouraged open dialogue through understanding and trust.


Another initiative championed by Carey gathered police officers, prosecutors, and judges with students to educate them on their rights and how to interact safely with law enforcement. This proactive, community-based work helped lay the foundation for a safer and more equitable environment in Battle Creek.


But his voice wasn’t just raised on behalf of the African American community and youth. Carey was a steadfast advocate for Battle Creek's growing immigrant populations, such as the Burmese and Congolese communities. Whether by setting up translation services or creating resource centers, Carey worked tirelessly to foster inclusion and collaboration in a rapidly diversifying city.


His philosophy was simple: "Being part of the community means standing up when you see something wrong. It’s about being engaged, aware, and ready to help." Carey’s leadership extended beyond activism; it was about creating lasting systems of support that would outlive any single individual or initiative.


Carey’s work has had a lasting impact, but his approach remains rooted in humility. He doesn’t see himself as a larger-than-life figure but as someone who shows up, listens, and takes action when needed. His legacy in Battle Creek is not built on grand gestures but on the day-to-day efforts of a man deeply committed to justice and equality.


Carey Whitfield’s story powerfully reminds us that meaningful change does not come from grand gestures alone. It results from consistent, thoughtful action over time—actions that inspire others to follow suit and make a difference in their communities.


As Battle Creek TRHT continues its mission to foster racial equity and healing, Carey’s journey stands as an example of what’s possible when individuals commit to making a lasting difference.


“Be part of the community, get involved, pay attention, and, most importantly, stand up for what’s right.”

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