Thursday, June 11 | Volume 40 No 13

WESTSIDESTORY NEWSPAPER

New Data Debunks ‘Absent Black Father' Myth: Research Proves High Levels Of Engagement and Resilient Coparenting

SAN BERNARDINO, CA--- Groundbreak- ing research and local advocacy are disman- tling decades of harmful stereotypes sur- rounding Black fatherhood. For generations, cultural narratives have painted a picture of widespread absenteeism. However, statisti- cal evidence and community leaders reveal a drastically different reality: Black fathers are among the most active, involved parents in the nation.

A series of comprehensive studies challeng- es the legacy of outdated sociological frame- works. Data show that Black fathers, both co-residing and non-residential, consistently outpace other demographic groups in daily child-rearing activities.

What the Data Shows

The numbers tell a story of deep parental com- mitment:

⚫ Higher Daily Involvement: A 2008 survey of low-income mothers found that nonresident white fathers were less involved with their children than African American and Latino fa- thers.

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The Dameron family: Malaika, Shaila, Carl and Shiane in 2015 at California Adventure. "The myth of the absent Black father has been used to unfairly characterize our communities for far too long," said Carl M. Dameron.

Effective Coparenting: A 2018 study on nonmarital births revealed that Black mothers reported Black fathers shared responsibilities more frequently and displayed more effective coparenting than Hispanic and White fathers. ⚫ Resilience After Separation: Research pub- lished in 2009 noted that while father involve ment generally drops sharply after parents separate, these declines are significantly less dramatic for African American fathers.

A 2013 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) contradicts ste- reotypes about absentee Black fathers, show- ing high levels of daily engagement and active parenting. The CDC data found that Black fa- thers living with their children were more like- ly to perform daily care tasks, such as feeding, bathing, and dressing, compared to their white or Hispanic counterparts.

"When it comes to Black fatherhood, absence is not the norm," states journalist German Lopez. "Active, involved parenthood is." Local Leaders Speak Out

The impact of these statistics is felt deeply on the ground. Carl M. Dameron, founder of Dameron Communications and a prominent community advocate in Southern California, emphasizes the critical need to align public perception with reality.

"The myth of the absent Black father has been used to unfairly characterize our communities for far too long," said Dameron. "Look at the real stories in our neighborhoods. You see men working hard, showing up for school events, coaching sports, and leading households. We need to replace a false narrative with one of unity, strength, and devotion."

Experts note that the parental relationship it- self has a less negative impact on a Black fa- ther's commitment. Even when a romantic rela- tionship ends, Black fathers routinely maintain strong, independent bonds with their children. This defies the historical assumptions popular- ized by reports dating back to the 1960s. Changing the Narrative

The push to correct this narrative is about more than just statistics. It is about dignity and sys- temic support. When communities acknowl- edge the active presence of Black fathers, policies and local programs can better support them as vital pillars of family leadership.

Advocates argue that celebrating this reality helps future generations thrive. It provides young Black boys with accurate, positive re- flections of their own potential as future par- ents. The data is clear: Black fathers are pres- ent, capable, and leading their families with distinction.

Celebrate Freedom and Community at the 6th Annual Juneteenth Celebration & Resource Fair

LOS ANGELES, CA--- You are invited to join Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell for the 6th Annual Juneteenth Cele- bration & Resource Fair on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at George Washington Carver Park, located at 1400 E. 118th St. in Los Angeles.

This free, family-friendly event gives you the opportunity to celebrate freedom, connect with valuable community resources, enjoy en- gaging activities, visit food trucks, and experi- ence live entertainment.

The celebration will also kick off the park's eight-week Freedom Summer Program, which provides free, ongoing programming for youth ages 18 and younger.

You are encouraged to register today and share the event with your friends, family, and neighbors. Come celebrate, connect, and en- joy the community on Saturday, June 13.