In a world where positive black male role models are scarce, the brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity are stepping up to make a difference in our communities. Through our support of the International Headquarters' (IHQ) Fatherhood Initiative, the Aloha Ques are demonstrating the power of mentorship and the impact it can have on young lives.
Black male role models.
When we think about role models, who comes to mind? For many, it's people like Barack Obama, Denzel Washington, and Michael Jordan. But the reality is, many young Black men don't have access to these types of role models in their day to day lives. And that's a problem.
You see, black male role models play a critical role in the development of Black youth, especially boys. Positive Black male role models help to counteract negative stereotypes and provide examples of success. They model healthy relationships, emotional intelligence, and what it means to be a good man.
Unfortunately, far too many Black boys are growing up without a father or positive male role model in the home. This leaves them vulnerable to gangs, violence, and the school to prison pipeline. But it doesn't have to be this way. Each of us has a role to play in ensuring that black boys have access to the role models they need to succeed.
If you're a Black man, consider volunteering with a youth program or mentoring a young boy in your community. Show them what healthy Black manhood looks like. Look for opportunities to lift up positive images of Black men and fathers. Challenge stereotypes when you see them in media and in your social circles. And support programs and initiatives aimed at providing mentors for Black youth.
By working together, we can ensure that all Black boys have the role models they need to grow into healthy, successful men. The impact will be felt for generations to come.
The Importance of Positive Role Models
As the acclaimed Bro. Dr. Carter G. Woodson, often called the Father of Black History, once said, "You must give your own story to the world." This sentiment rings true for many Black fathers who are striving to break stereotypes and create a new narrative. However, for young Black men, finding positive role models who exist in middle-class or professional environments can be a challenge.
The lack of black male teachers and role models overall leaves many young black boys trying to figure out how to be men on their own. Without guidance, they may turn to peers or older men who may not always provide the best advice. As one Bruh noted, "There's no one to say, 'Hold your head up. You're destined for greatness.'" This is where Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and the Fatherhood Initiative steps in.
The IHQ Fatherhood Initiative
Founded in 2005, the International Headquarters (IHQ) Fatherhood Initiative was created by the brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity to address the issue of absentee fathers within the Black community. Through various programs, workshops, and events, the initiative seeks to promote positive fatherhood and mentorship, encouraging brothers to be active and involved fathers, role models, and leaders within their families and communities.
The Impact of Mentorship
Mentorship can have a profound impact on young lives. By providing guidance, support, and positive example, mentors can help shape the future of the next generation. This is especially important for young Black men who may not have many positive role models in their lives. Through the Fatherhood Initiative, the Aloha Ques are able to mentor and support not only our own children but also other young boys in our community. Whether through workshops on fatherhood skills, hosting events for fathers and sons to bond, or simply being a positive presence in a child's life, the Aloha Ques are making a lasting impact on the lives of young boys.
Aloha Ques Making a Difference
Despite these challenges, there are plenty of Black men who are positively impacting the young men in their communities. Some are high-profile individuals, while others are local businessmen or teachers. The Aloha Ques are among those making a difference through our support of the IHQ Fatherhood Initiative.
One shining example features Bro. Richard Ray (GE '90) qka "Pretty Ricky" and Keith Major Jr., Beta Mu 92's son. When '92 struggled to teach his left-handed son baseball fundamentals, he turned to his fraternity brother, Pretty Ricky, for help. As a fellow Southpaw, Pretty Ricky was able to teach Keith Jr. in just a few hours what '92 couldn't teach him in weeks.
This experience highlighted an important lesson: sometimes, the expertise and support we need can be found within our own community. By reaching out to a fraternity brother, Keith Jr's father was able to provide his son with the guidance and mentorship he needed to succeed.
A Call to Action
The story of Pretty Ricky and Keith Major Jr. is just one example of the positive impact that Omega Psi Phi is having in our communities. But the work doesn't stop there. As Bro. Dr. Carter G. Woodson reminds us, we all have a story to share and a role to play in shaping the lives of young people.
Whether you're a member of Omega Psi Phi or not, I encourage you to become a positive role model in your community. Reach out to young people, offer guidance and support, and show them that they are destined for greatness. Together, we can create a brighter future for the next generation of Black men.
Conclusion
The Aloha Ques are setting an example for all Black men by actively promoting positive fatherhood and mentorship through Project Aspiration, our local version of the Fatherhood Initiative. By being involved in our communities and providing guidance and support to young boys, we are not only breaking stereotypes but also creating a brighter future for the next generation. So let us continue to support and uplift each other, showing the world what true brotherhood and mentorship can accomplish.
Let us also recognize and celebrate the positive impact that Omega Psi Phi is making. Let us embody the spirit of brotherhood and service in everything we do. And most importantly, let us remember that being a positive role model is not just about being a biological father, but it is also about being present and positively influencing the lives of young boys in our communities. Let us all be role models that young black boys can look up to and be inspired by.
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