More often than not, society automatically tells Black boys that growing up without a father means they’re unable to break the cycle. This inaccurate notion of the Black man is not only harmful to the Black community, but it also discredits the Black fathers making it happen.
Although a child may grow up without a father, it does not mean that they will do the same. Black boys are more than a statistic waiting to happen.
Shawn Lovell, 22, said growing up without a father motivates him to be present in his future child’s life. He said he wants to break the pattern of unpresented fathers.
“I just want to have a relationship with my child, period,” Lovell said. “I like to think about how I would be as a father and what I can do differently.”
Many Black men feel the way Lovell feels about being a Black father. A CDC study showed that 2.5 million Black fathers are in fact living with their child. This alone dismisses the argument of Black fathers not wanting to be present.
There are children from all backgrounds who may grow up without a father, but to say that Black men don’t want to be in their child’s life is not fair to the big percentage that do. It is not up to the Black man to debunk these accusations. When all odds are against them, Black men are still told they can’t.
Within the Black community, there needs to be more acknowledgment of the presence of a Black father and the important role they play. Black kids should not have to grow up hearing ‘Where’s your dad?’ even if their dad is present. Comments such as those are stereotypical and are often spoken out of ignorance.
Black men continue to be trailblazers and resilient even when society tells you not to. Fathers and father figures are so important in a child’s life and will always be appreciated.
