November 7th, 2024

 

Black Fathers in America

By: Chelsea Davis-Bibb, Ed.D.

Being a Black man in America is hard, but being a Black father in America, that can be challenging. Being a father is more than just having a child. It means being there for them, supporting them, educating them, and raising them into respectable young adults who will eventually go out into the world and start a life on their own. Five fathers were interviewed and were asked the same questions regarding their perceptions of being a father.

Q: What does being a father mean to you?

Being a father is an amazing thing. It means being part human part superhero. You have to be loving, stern, supportive and so much more to give your children a foundation to grow.

-Daniel Keaton

Being a father is a blessing that I do not take for granted. It’s an opportunity that is not afforded to everyone. To watch someone with half of what makes you unique grow up before your eyes in your children, is nothing less than remarkable.

-Sergeant Jeremy Lahar

Being a father to me is both having Privilege and Opportunity. The Privilege of being able to go through life with the seed that God gifted you, through you. Being able to Love and cherish every moment throughout life together.

-Devin Johnson

It takes an exceptional man to be a dad… Being able to cultivate a growing and loving environment, while providing resources, and protecting my daughter are the most important things to me.

-Chris Burrell

Being a father is everything! It’s challenging but so rewarding; and I have a girl and that changes how you act. For the better of course.

-Tony Warfield.

 Q: In your eyes, how are Black fathers perceived in society?

Black fathers in society’s eyes are rare. Society thinks most of us left to get milk but, in actuality we came back home with bags of groceries.
-Daniel Keaton

Unfortunately, they are perceived as inconsistent or even absent.

– Sergeant Jeremy Lahar

I believe the Black Father is not honored, appreciated, and respected as much as they should be. Perception as a whole has been looked at in a more negative way than positive.

-Devin Johnson

In today’s time, the social convention of the black father is very dismal. Society demonizes Black fathers as absent from the child’s life, womanizing, and neglectful when it comes to raising children; often using the power of money as a substitute for their presence.  But I am grateful that perception isn’t always reality and that there are countless Black men in this world that are great fathers, and their work, effort, and presence are now visible (due in part with social media) and changing the social paradigm to a more positive reflection for Black fathers everywhere.

-Chris Burrell

I think my generation is definitely changing how Black fathers are perceived in society. We are present, we are providing, we are loving, and we are dope.

-Tony Warfield

 Q: What do you love most about being a father?

I love the smiles my boys give me every time they see me and seeing that little bit of me in everything they do.

-Daniel Keaton

I love the opportunity to teach my children everything I’ve learned so they can exceed their mother and I in what they can accomplish in life.

– Sergeant Jeremy Lahar

What I love most, is being able to watch my kids laugh, smile, and enjoy the moments of life that excites them.

-Devin Johnson

For me, what I love most about being a father is seeing my child grow up and having a hand in their development.

-Chris Burrell

The best thing about being a father is knowing you’re a superhero to somebody and they will love you, just like you love them.

-Tony Warfield

 

 

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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