Black Fathers: Present Then. Present Now.

By Javon Brame

Father’s Day is the one time of year when we, as a society, have an opportunity to acknowledge the impact of the men in our lives who show up day and night. In the Black community, there is a pervasive myth that Black men are absent fathers, but the CDC reports that Black fathers are more present than any other group of fathers in the country. Black children are more likely to experience time with their fathers, including witnessing the acts of their fathers, such as bathing, cleaning, cooking, dropping them off at school, and being present for their activities.

I can attest to this phenomenon. My father regularly drove me to school or to the school bus stop, showed up for my school assemblies, attended parent-teacher conferences, coached me in my athletic pursuits, and helped me with my homework. It was also not rare for him to co-cook a meal for us with our mother, all while being a provider for our family. I know my sisters can all say the same.

Fatherhood represents more than biology. It is presence. It is sacrifice. It is discipline wrapped in love. It is the quiet consistency of showing up when no one is watching and when no applause is expected. Fatherhood is found in the early morning rides, the late-night talks, the lessons taught through example, and the steady hand that helps shape a child’s understanding of the world.

For many Black families, fathers have carried the weight of being protector, provider, teacher, coach, counselor, and example. They have done so in a world that often questions their commitment before acknowledging their contribution. Too often, society repeats harmful narratives about Black fatherhood while ignoring the fathers who are braiding hair, packing lunches, attending games, helping with homework, working long hours, praying over their children, and doing everything they can to give their families a better life.

This Father’s Day, I want to reject the deficit narrative. I want to honor the Black fathers who have been present, loving, engaged, and committed. I want to honor the fathers who may not have had perfect examples themselves but still chose to give their children the love, structure, and support they deserved. I want to honor the fathers who made sacrifices their children may never fully understand, but whose impact will be felt for generations.

I also want to honor the father figures: the grandfathers, uncles, brothers, coaches, mentors, pastors, teachers, fraternity brothers, and community leaders who stepped in, stood in the gap, and helped raise children with care and intention. Their presence matters too. Their guidance matters. Their investment matters.

When I think about my father, I think about the many ways he modeled love through action. Not just through words, but through consistency. Through showing up. Through making sure we knew we were supported. Through demonstrating that responsibility and tenderness can live in the same man. His example helped shape my understanding of manhood, family, commitment, and love.

So, this Father’s Day, let us celebrate fathers fully. Let us tell the truth about Black fatherhood. Let us honor the men who have loved their children out loud and in quiet, everyday ways. Let us give flowers to the fathers who have been present, who have sacrificed, who have nurtured, and who have helped build strong families and stronger communities.

Happy Father’s Day to the fathers who show up.

We see you. We honor you. We thank you.