Antoniese (Tony) Gant is a passionate advocate for criminal legal system reform and Co-Executive Director of Nation Outside, a grassroots organization in Michigan led by formerly incarcerated individuals. With a wealth of personal experience, having spent 20 years in the Michigan Department of Corrections, Tony is dedicated to improving the socio-economic success of justice-impacted individuals.

In his role, Tony leads statewide campaigns focused on fair chance housing laws, voting access, clean slate laws, life and long sentences reform, and conditions of confinement during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has successfully mobilized communities and individuals to drive change and create impact in Michigan.

As a 2021 Leading with Conviction fellow with JustLeadershipUSA, a Board Director for the Prison Creative Arts Program (PCAP), and Co-Chair for Region 7 OS Advisory Council, Tony is actively involved in various initiatives that aim to empower and uplift directly impacted communities. He is also a member of the leadership committee for the Voting Access for All Coalition (VAAC).

In addition to his advocacy work, Tony is a dedicated father and author of Midnight Whispers, His commitment to amplifying the voices of those affected by the criminal legal system drives his power and movement building strategies, rooted in increasing civic engagement and creating lasting change for marginalized individuals and communities.