Black Fathers as Curriculum: Adopting Sons and Advancing Progressive-Regressive Black Masculinity

• In Event: Black Mask-ulinity: An Emerging Framework for Black Masculine Caring

Abstract

Drawing on his experiences as an adoptive father and educator, Douglas presents an adoption model for Black males that is historically and culturally sensitive to the unique dynamics of Black masculinity. The author offers specific “snapshots”—lessons and principles for adoptive fathers—that highlight the essential roles that Black men play as both fathers and educators. Far more than making a passive suggestion that deficit-based narratives on Black male identity and history are problematic, Douglas advocates for an ideological shift in how we see and honor Black male educators and fathers as curriculum and as men who care.

Author

• Ty-Ron M.O. Douglas, University of Missouri - Columbia