Engaged Black fathers strengthen health of their kids, communities — and themselves.

Men often replicate the best attributes of their own fathers – such as being loving and affectionate. Adobe Stock Photo According to statistics from the CDC, Black fathers are more involved with their kids daily than fathers from other racial groups. About 70% of Black dads who live with their kids bathe, dress, change or help their child with the toilet each day, compared with 60% of White fathers and 45% of Hispanic dads.& These facts go against the racist myth often portrayed in politics, the media, and in higher education: That Black fathers are largely absent and unengaged with their children.& While Black fathers are less likely to marry their children’s mothers than White and Hispanic fathers — a fact that’s often the result structural and systemic racism — they are engaged and generally place a high value on parenting regardless of setting. For example Black fathers may live with their children’s moms or visit regularly. They may provide joint caretaking, as well as financial and in-kind support. They may be single custodial fathers or stepfathers, too.& DR. PAULA MARIE POWE According to Dr. Paula Marie Powe, Researcher, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Pitt, and Medical Director of the...