June 14, 2007

"Happy Father's Day"

Washington, DC (PoliticalJones.com) - As Father’s Day approaches, the grim statistics gripping our community concerning African American Males are staggering. If you live within the community, you don’t need statistics or studies to know that there is a problem. Whether it is a lack of health care at birth, being imprisoned while they are young, or if they are lucky enough to make it over 50, facing the prospect of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and prostate cancer, African American Males both young and old are catching hell on both ends.

Some would say the plight of African American Males could not be worse, with all of the young Brothers in jail or caught up in the criminal justice system. Well yes, things are tough for African American Males. And yes, we do have too many bothers in jail, and not in school.

Regardless, of all of these facts and figures, there are plenty of Brothers out there getting up everyday, going to work and making a living who are not in the criminal justice system. There are even brothers who have been in the criminal justice system and have done their time, then turned their lives around. We don’t hear enough about these brothers, those African American Men who are fathers to their children and often someone else’s children. Those who take care of their families, work hard, and live their lives.

Now, and during the 2008 election season, it is very important to remind the politicians and elected officials that the plight and struggles of African American Men are tied not only to the viability of their communities, but to long term viability of our nation. These Brothers have heard enough of the political rhetoric and pandering. They are not impressed with election year appearances of politicians and elected officials at the local African American Church proclaiming their commitment to the issues that are of concern to the community.

We should take this opportunity to inspire and acknowledge all those Brothers who work hard, not only to take care of their families, but their communities. These are Brothers, who are not trying to be famous, or gangster, or political leaders. These are African American Men of substance whose contribution to both our neighborhoods and nation are heartfelt and honest. We see these men everyday, but many times we don’t take the time to thank them.

We need to make sure we uplift them and all those young brothers who are doing the right thing. African American Men have always found a way to survive, and there will always be African American Men who will find a way not only for themselves, but others.

This is very personal for me, because these are the Black Men, like my father, who helped raised me. They continue to counsel and encourage me to stand for something and to not forget to help others.

So for all of those Brothers who don’t ask for any thanks or recognition . . . Thank you for being a Real Man, and Happy Father’s Day!