Leroy Robinson Jr.

Leroy Robinson Jr. (January 17, 1937 - June 25, 2022) was born in Laurel, Mississippi to parents Leroy and Lillian Robinson. He then moved to Elkhart in the early 1960s. and quickly became known as a man on a mission to make Elkhart Indiana a better place to live.                                         

Robinson served as Elkhart's building commissioner for sixteen years, where he oversaw construction codes, zoning rules, safety inspections, and building permits. In this role, Robinson became known as a man who treated people fairly, taking the time to explain complex processes in a way that all could understand. Even in a role where most would focus on the paperwork, he did his best to make city development transparent, equitable, and beneficial for all, regardless of race or class. He believed that fairness in this field was a path towards opportunity for the community.

Robinson also placed value in the importance of homeownership, believing that homeownership is a necessary step toward building wealth and stability. So, he co-founded H.O.M.E. (Home Ownership Made Easy), a program which provided the community with financial counselling, education, and down payment assistance. Robinson often worked directly with participants in the program, encouraging and reminding them that home ownership was within their reach. Through H.O.M.E., dozens of families were able to break the cycle of renting and move into their own homes. As a result of the H.O.M.E. program, the Elkhart community became stronger and more connected. Former renters gained a renewed sense of pride, knowing that they were no longer just temporary residents but true stakeholders in their neighbourhoods.

Along with his work in housing, Robinson served as a leader for all black Americans in Elkhart, particularly for the youth. He was a co-founder in the Elkhart chapter of the Indiana Black Expo, which became one of the most successful chapters in the state. The expo brought events like job fairs, scholarship programs, and youth mentorship opportunities to Elkhart, giving young people the resources they need to succeed. Robinson also played a key role in establishing chapters across Indiana, including South Bend, Michigan City, and Fort Wayne.

Because of his many contributions, Elkhart chose to honor him with Leroy Robinson week and the Southern Soul & Soul Music Festival, a community celebration held each year, organized by the Elkhart Chapter of the Indiana Black Expo. Now in its fourth year, Leroy Robinson Week has grown into a significant cultural event in the community. In mid-August, Elkhart features a full schedule of music, arts, and community giveback events. The week starts with the "Lerner on the Lawn," a free gospel concert. Other events include a special needs family day, community health and wellness conversations, an African American Arts Pavilion showcasing art and performances, and the week concludes with the South Side parade and a soul music festival.

Leroy Robinson Jr. truly lived a life of service. Whether it was helping young people purchase homes, guiding young people toward success, or making sure that the city worked to benefit everyone, he made Elkhart a better place to live. Today, Elkhart continues to benefit from the foundations that Robinson laid. Today, through events like Leroy Robinson week, his work continues to inspire the next generation to build community and embrace opportunities in the city of Elkhart.