“A lot of times people talk about the ‘baby daddies’ and ‘deadbeat dads,’” said Aja Owens, poet, author and event producer. ‘And I’m like, ‘Wait a minute, I know quite a few guys who take care of their kids.’”
To offset these negative stereotypes and assumptions, she began with a photo essay about everything that is right with black fatherhood.
But when George Zimmerman was acquitted in the murder of Trayvon Martin last month, she felt like she had to do something tangible – something to express how the black community values its men, not just fathers.
“I know so many guys who are doing all types of work in the community,” Owens said. “Educators, coaches – all types of things.”
She partnered with Nikia Gist of L.A.C.E. (Ladies After Community Enrichment) to create an event that sheds light on positive black male images and redefines their reputation.
“What About Us?: A Celebration of Black Manhood” will take place Saturday afternoon at the Regional Arts Commission in the Delmar Loop.
Vendors (books, jewelry, culinary artists), local poets, musicians and live art by local visual artists will give guests the opportunity to network and fellowship. Owens hopes by presenting this event she will also provide a channel for black men to reach the younger generation.
“We hope that some of these older men can start mentoring the young guys who may come out for the event,” Owens said.
“I’m all about networking and connecting people to resources, because a lot of times people don’t know what’s out there to help them or the types of opportunities that are out there. I want them to see a man who spent 20 years in jail and now he owns his own company. By them seeing that, it will give them that hope.”
There will also be a panel discussion framed around the question, ““How do we redefine the image of black men in our society?”
“I want us black women to see this,” Owens said. “Because think about how many black women think, ‘Oh, well, I’m an independent woman. I don’t need a man.’ Imagine what that does to the black man.”
She hopes to start a conversation about black men’s presence within the community.
“My hope is that people walk away with a different perspective on black men and let go of these negative stigmas,” she said. “The black community is such a unique and powerful community, and I feel like other people recognize our power and influence before we recognize it in ourselves.”
She hopes that the event becomes a recurring one – and that black men ultimately carry the torch for “What About Us?” She wants them to provide first-hand experiences to illustrate their struggles and create healthy dialogue that is true to their everyday struggles –and victories – as black men in America.
“I thought, ‘Let us come together as a community and encourage these men and let the community see these things,’” Owens said. “I hope that this event will cause a shift in people’s conversations – and will start to celebrate our men, instead of just bringing them down. These men work hard to uplift a positive image of men in the black community so please come out and support their efforts.”
“What About Us?: A Celebration of Black Manhood will take place on Saturday, Aug. 31, from 1 – 5 p.m. at The Regional Arts Commission, 6128 Delmar Blvd. For more information, call (314) 281-3968.
