Black Men's Bonding and Learning in Black Male Initiative Programs

• In Event: Learning and Development Through Race, Gender, and Sexuality Lenses

Abstract

The current study relies on in-depth interviews with 63 Black males to explore their experiences in a Black Male Initiative (BMI) program at three different colleges. In discussing their narratives, the students articulate the qualitative contributions that BMI had on their sense of belonging and connectedness on campus. In particular, BMI helped the men formulate a micro-community, which was centered on their identities as Black males. Within their BMI community, the men felt encouraged for success because of their connections, the supportive atmosphere, and the brotherhood and bonding that developed.

Author

• Derrick R. Brooms, University of Cincinnati