Sean Williams, founder of The Dad Gang, discusses challenges of fatherhood, building a supportive community for Black dads. They reflect on breaking generational patterns, different fatherhood experiences, and upcoming Father's Day march with Lego partnership.
Black fathers are often more involved in daily care than white fathers, challenging stereotypes.
The Dad Gang creates a supportive community for black fathers through events and initiatives.
Financial struggles can be a challenge for black fathers, but they prioritize their children's well-being.
Deep dives
Redefining the Narrative Around Black Fatherhood
Sean Williams founded the Dad Gang in response to stereotypes portraying black fathers negatively. The organization aims to combat misconceptions and showcase the positive side of black fatherhood. Williams, driven by personal experiences, reshapes the narrative by highlighting the active and engaged role of black dads in their children's lives.
Community Building and Support for Black Fathers
The Dad Gang organizes events like the March of Dads to bring together black fathers and create a supportive community. Through workshops, panels, and public demonstrations, the organization promotes positive images of fatherhood. They offer a platform for dads to share experiences, learn parenting skills, and engage in activities that strengthen their bond with their children.
Financial Challenges Faced by Black Fathers
Black fathers often face financial struggles, especially in providing for their children's needs like childcare and extracurricular activities. Balancing the costs of raising a child with other expenses can be a significant challenge. Despite the financial pressures, fathers prioritize their children's well-being and strive to create a safe and nurturing environment for their families.
Political Advocacy and Recognition for Black Fatherhood
The Dad Gang collaborates with elected officials to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by black fathers, including custody battles and stereotypes. Through initiatives like Fatherhood Recognition Month in New York City, the organization advocates for policies that support and empower black fathers. They work with politicians to promote positive representations of black fatherhood and create opportunities for community engagement.
Community Involvement and Support for the Dad Gang
To support the mission of the Dad Gang, individuals can follow the organization on social media, share their content, and reach out to get involved. Donations are welcomed to help fund events and initiatives that uplift black fatherhood. By spreading awareness and engaging with the Dad Gang's platforms, people can contribute to challenging stereotypes and celebrating the diversity and strength of black fathers.
The stereotype of Black fathers is that they’re largely absent, and uninvolved in their children’s lives. And that image persists, despite research that suggests that Black fathers are often more involved in the daily care of their kids than white fathers. On today’s episode of A Word, Jason Johnson is joined by Sean Williams, the founder of The Dad Gang, an organization that uplifts and supports Black and other marginalized fathers. They talk about the challenges of fatherhood, and building a community where dads can help each other.
Guest: Sean Williams, founder of The Dad Gang
Podcast production by Kristie Taiwo-Makanjuola
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