Episode 25: Building Trust and Healing Hurts - Gayle Harvey on Community, Advocacy, and Moving Forward
Building Trust, Healing Hurt, and Community Advocacy with Gayle Harvey
On this episode of "What I Know Now," brought to you by The Delta Project, hosts Bilal and Cole Williams are joined by Gayle Harvey, Vice President of the Greater Grand Rapids NAACP, founder of the Harvey Lynn Group, and a passionate community leader. Together, they dive deep into themes of trauma, trust-building, and transformative healing, especially as they relate to the juvenile justice system, community-police relations, and grassroots advocacy in West Michigan.
Gayle Harvey shares her journey growing up in West Michigan, the powerful influence of her family and community mentors, and the core values that drive her mission. She offers vital insights into the work of the NAACP, her initiatives with the Harvey Lynn Group, and the Community Informed Training (CIT) program that seeks to bridge understanding between law enforcement and local residents.
The conversation explores the challenges of intergenerational trauma, why trust is essential for meaningful change, and how communities can face their hurts in order to heal. Harvey highlights the importance of “meeting people where they are” and investing in intergenerational mentorship, stressing the need to include and empower youth in all levels of advocacy and leadership.
Listeners will also discover practical steps for getting started in grassroots organizing, the patience required for real policy change, and the critical role of listening and mutual respect in shaping more just, connected communities.
Don’t miss this engaging episode, full of heartfelt stories, actionable advice, and powerful reminders that you can’t heal if you’re hurting, and that building a sense of true home and belonging is key for both individuals and communities.
Tune into Episode 25 of the What I Know Now Podcast on Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you find your podcasts.
