Name: Semaj Bunch | City: New Orleans, Louisiana | IG: @majblackman

What does being a father mean to you?

Being a father is the most enjoyable part of my life. It can be overwhelming to think about the amount of love a parent can have for their children. I let them know every how amazing they are, how blessed I am to be their father, and how much I love them. My mission as a father is to help them become loving, thoughtful, courageous, smart, and productive members of society.

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

My childhood experience was great. I have so many fond memories of the time we spent together as a child. It seemed like he knew how to do everything, and knew everyone. He was Santa Claus at my school, my basketball coach, my biggest critic, and my biggest supporter. A lot of who I am as a father has been based on my personal experiences.

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

Having the opportunity to grow up with my father in the house was critical. There were times in my life that I needed a stern push in the back. Having that string make presence definitely kept me in line. I like my father have always been a little short on the patience side. It has taken an extremely conscious effort on my side to make sure I am fostering an environment that makes my children feel comfortable.

Have you had any obstacles on your fatherhood journey?

Unfortunately I am not able to be in the home with my children anymore. I wake up everyday and I hear their voices and little feet as the run from their room to and crash dive on my couch. I call them daily and see them as much as possible. With my role being a little more limited than I would like I have to make the time we spend as quality as possible.

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

As a new father my best advice would be not to put so much pressure on yourself to be great. Being a father will make you grow in so many ways. Enjoy the journey and get used to watching children’s shows.

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

A large part of who you are lives in me. You raised me to be a great man and for that I will forever be grateful. Continuing our families legacy of great forward thinking men is very important to me and I promise to love, cherish, and nourish my children as much as possible.

Name some other fathers you cosign.