The Black Fatherhood Project

Gr 6 Up—This documentary uses a discussion of the history of African American fatherhood, from Africa through slavery and into the present day, to inform a broader view of the issues black men face today. The historical context is communicated through interviews, primarily with Howard University professors, and through historical photographs and illustrations. Additional interviews with black men discussing their experiences as fathers are also a key component, especially director Jordan Thierry recounting his family's history. This does sometimes feel like a first film, with its occasional sound quality issues and incomplete identification of interviewees ("economist," instead of "economist, Howard University"). Nevertheless, the content is relevant to the intended audience. More importantly, the message of being an involved father has the potential to affect young black men, particularly, but not exclusively. This video will be useful in a guidance context with middle and high school aged boys. Useful supplemental information, including a discussion guide, is also available at http://blackfatherhoodproject.com.—Kristin Anderson, Columbus Metropolitan Library, OH