It is that time of year when we honor our fathers, but today I am deliberate in my choice to talk about Black fathers. Not because all dads don’t matter. But because society’s narrative of Black fatherhood is often told in a negative way. The distorted stories inaccurately depict Black fathers as absentee deadbeats who often abandon their children. But that is society’s tale, and this report also suggests otherwise.
For generations, the dangerous myth of the “missing black father” plagued our Black fathers and Black men as a whole. Yet there are a large number of Black fathers who are consistently working very hard to be great examples to their sons and daughters. They are actively involved in shaping their children to become individuals. Who are positive and productive contributors to the human race. I believe the time is now to showcase and highlight the positive attributes of our Black fathers.
Pocstock, black-owned media agency. Announced the launch of a national digital media campaign promoting positive images of Black fathers. Pocstock Specializes in creating and marketing images that showcase the diverse pigmentations of lifestyles. Fashion and cultures of people of color.
The multi-part social campaign, called ‘Black Dad Challenge,’ is a call-to-action for Black fathers. And those that love them to share photos and/or videos of themselves with their children via social media using the hashtag #BlackDadChallenge. Participants are encouraged to tag at least five other Black dads in their post as a show of support and pride.
Also, Pocstock will be hosting a virtual fireside chat celebrating and honoring Black fathers. On June 19th at 7 pm EST via Facebook, join Pocstock Live at https://facebook.com/blackdadchallenge. The live stream will feature panelists, including actor, comedian, and Internet personality King Keraun. Who has appeared on HBO’s Insecure and ABC’s Black-ish. Diversity leader Lamont Robinson, CEO of RLC Diversity/ former VP of Supplier Diversity at Nielsen. Legendary TV and music video producer Benny Boom. C Corey Smith, MLB’s Chief Diversity Officer. And Charles Thompson III, Senior Director of Fund Development and Marketing at the National Society of Black Engineers. International speaker Dee Marshall, author of “Dear Black Man, We Love You,” and SHE-EO of Diverse & Engaged, will moderate the live event.
“There is a stereotype, often fueled by inaccurate depictions in mainstream media. That Black fathers are deadbeat dads,” says pocs tock CEO Steve Jones. That perception does a disservice to all hard-working Black fathers. Who are active and engaged in the upbringing of their children.”
The viral Girl Dad movement, following the death of NBA legend Kobe Bryant earlier this year. Showcased Black fathers in mass media in a positive light for the first time. “These images need to be out there. Because representation is one of the ways we can begin to effect change,” says Jones.
For more information about the campaign, visit Black Dad Challange. Follow Black Dad Challenge on Facebook or Instagram.
Get involved. Be a part of the “Black Dad Challange” and be a part of the change in the narrative of our Black fathers.
As Always, Sending Love. Stay Safe.
Cheers
XXOO
Nat