Michelle Obama’s brother, Craig Robinson, might not share her level of fame, but he is equally accomplished. Like Michelle, Craig graduated from Princeton University. He found success as a basketball player, later transitioning to a lucrative career as a bank investor before finding fulfillment in coaching. Despite his achievements, Craig has faced significant hardships. Growing up as a Black man in the South Side of Chicago, he experienced firsthand the injustices and racial profiling that shaped his worldview.
Overcoming Racial Profiling and Hardships
From a young age, Craig encountered systemic racism, including an incident where he was accused of stealing his own bike. He was riding around his neighborhood when police stopped him, suspecting he had stolen the bike his parents had just bought for him. The police took him home, where his mother spent 45 minutes convincing the officer of Craig’s innocence. This was his first encounter with racial profiling, a concept that would become all too familiar throughout his life.
Michelle Obama has spoken about Craig’s experiences, noting that such incidents are common for Black Americans. “When you leave the safety of your home and go out into the street, where being Black is a crime in and of itself, we have all had to learn how to operate outside of our homes with a level of caution and fear,” she said on her podcast in 2020.
The Impact of White Flight
Craig and Michelle’s childhood was also marked by the effects of white flight. Their family moved to a new neighborhood to access better schools, initially enjoying a diverse community. However, as white families moved out, investment in their community dwindled, leading to a decline in resources and infrastructure. This experience highlighted the systemic nature of racial inequities and reinforced the importance of resilience and perseverance.
Legal Battles and Advocacy
In April 2022, Craig and his wife, Kelly, sued the University School of Milwaukee, alleging the school retaliated against their sons following the couple’s criticism of racially insensitive teaching practices. The school expelled their children, which the Robinsons saw as a direct response to their feedback. The lawsuit underscored Craig’s commitment to advocating for racial justice and equity, even at a personal cost.
Enduring Loss and Grief
The Robinson siblings have also faced significant personal loss. Their father, Fraser Robinson, passed away in 1991 from complications related to multiple sclerosis, a traumatic event that deeply affected both Craig and Michelle. Craig spoke about the profound impact their father had on their lives and the difficulty of continuing without him. When Michelle married Barack Obama the following year, Craig walked her down the aisle, a poignant reminder of their father’s absence.
In May 2024, Craig and Michelle lost their mother, Marian Robinson, who had been a constant source of support and love. Marian famously lived in the White House during Barack Obama’s presidency, providing stability and care for the family. Her death was another significant loss for the siblings, who have always credited their parents with instilling the values that guided their successes.
From Humble Beginnings to Success
Craig and Michelle grew up in a household that, while not wealthy, was rich in love and support. Their father worked as a pump operator, and their mother as a secretary before becoming a stay-at-home parent. Despite financial challenges, their parents prioritized their education and well-being, teaching them the value of hard work and resilience.
Craig’s journey from a successful basketball career to investment banking, and then back to basketball coaching, reflects the lessons he learned from his parents about following one’s passion over financial gain. Michelle has similarly expressed gratitude for their parents’ sacrifices, highlighting their father’s unwavering dedication to his family despite his illness.
Legacy and Reflection
Craig Robinson’s life story is a testament to the power of resilience, the impact of systemic racism, and the importance of family support. He has faced numerous challenges but has continually used his experiences to advocate for justice and equity. His journey, much like his sister’s, reflects a commitment to making a positive difference in the world, honoring their parents’ legacy with every step forward.
