Name: Kevin Powell | City: Richmond, Ca | IG: @Callme100k

What does being a father mean to you?

My two biggest fears in life are 1) hitting rock bottom again. And 2), my son not growing up with a daddy. With that said:

Being a black father means that it’s my duty to make sure my rose (my son) grows from concrete. I must make sure to provide, protect and maintain. But to also teach, build, nurture, and instill in him what wasn’t imputed in me as a kid. Building a legacy and standing strong on my last name is very important to me. I take pride in being my sons father and putting in the necessary work to ensure he has the brightest future!!

Describe your experience with your father growing up and how that impacted you today.

He loved me the best he knew how. My daddy didn’t support me that much if at all. He was there, but wasn’t there. He was the protector in the family. He and my mama were divorced. So I didn’t experience the love and affection I possess today. But he did teach me discipline, right from wrong, respect, protecting my family at all cost. And those are still a big part of me today. So I appreciate that to the fullest.

What things did you take from your experience growing up into your own fatherhood journey?

I’ve taken the approach of teaching my son, who’s almost two, right from wrong. That there are consequences when wrong is done. And that men can show feelings and express themselves without believing they’re “weak” or “soft.” Teaching him respect and proper acknowledgement.

Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey? If so, explain.

Of course! I did deal with the time I was able to see my son being controlled and limited when emotions were involved. But I’m too heavily vested into him and his life so, I fought, handled my business like a man and daddy, and got the time I deserve with him. During the week and weekend. Too often do we settle for just weekends or whatever is granted. No, fathers have a voice too! I wanted to raise my son as well. So making sure I can pick him up from school, drop him off, go to field trips, have weekend days, all of that. I’m already having to break barriers being a black man in America. I won’t settle for having to jump over anymore hurdles just to raise my son. So I stood tall and strong and didn’t fold. Our sons need us more than ever.

What advice would you give others new on their fatherhood journey?

I would advise other brothas to put themselves and their child’s future in front of their fears of failure and whatever other negatives. Build a legacy so your kid’s kids don’t have to go through what you went through or could possibly go through. And teach them everything you didn’t know, and don’t focus so much on buying them everything you didn’t have. Knowledge can never be stripped of them. But the materialistic stuff comes and goes.

If you could write a quick letter to your father, starting with “Dear Father,” what would you say?

Dear Father, Thank you for loving me the best you knew how. And a lot carried over into the man I am today. So thank you!

Name some other fathers you cosign.

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