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A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION
21-125
COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
October 6, 2015
To recognize and honor men of color who are successful and productive fathers, mentors, and the leaders of organizations like 100 Fathers, Inc., the DC Fatherhood Coalition, Men Aiming Higher, and the Men’s Ministry of New Bethel Baptist Church.
WHEREAS, on October 9, 2015, fathers of color from all over the nation will assemble at New Bethel Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. in honor of the National Fatherhood Initiative;
WHEREAS, these men and fathers of color have for years suffered the indignity of not receiving appropriate praise, honor, and appreciation that African-American fathers rightfully deserve;
WHEREAS, in 2014, President Barack Obama launched the “My Brother’s Keeper Initiative,” which is designed to help every boy and young man of color who is willing to do the hard work to get ahead; and to focus on issues such as early education, job preparedness, and keeping boys of color out of prison;
WHEREAS, the DC Fatherhood Coalition, the 100 Fathers, Inc., the Omega PSI PHI Fraternity Inc., the Fathers Inc., Men Aiming Higher, Concerned Black Men, Men Standing in the Gap Ministry, and the Men’s Ministry of New Bethel Baptist Church, will be joined by numerous national men's fatherhood organizations, and regional and local fatherhood and mentoring organizations to assemble together as a symbol of the laudable goal of meeting the challenges of the “My Brother’s Keeper Initiative”;
WHEREAS, fathers of color make an invaluable contribution by being committed and involved in the lives of their children and families by keeping them safe, being good role models, providing financial support and shelter, helping to reduce incarceration, and by upholding the highest academic standards for their children;
WHEREAS, we recognize that there are active, strong, and productive fathers, men, and mentors of color who are outstanding fathers, and who are raising the standard of excellence for fatherhood and mentorship;
WHEREAS, October 9, 2015 is dedicated to celebrate and honor the success of strong fathers, men, and mentors of color; and
WHEREAS, the Council recognizes the strong leadership of Franklyn Malone, Kenneth Braswell, Antonio F. Knox, and Del. Darryl Barnes, who are co-sponsors of this event and who are committed and dedicated to changing lives.
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this resolution may be cited as the “Fathers, Men, and Mentors Recognition Resolution of 2015”.
Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia honors and recognizes the leadership of strong fathers, men, and mentors of color who are making a significant and meaningful difference in the lives of youth in the District of Columbia.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon the first date of publication in the District of Columbia Register.
