(August 5, 2019) — The Million Fathers March (MFM) is an opportunity for men to build on their relationships and show their commitment to the educational lives of their children throughout the school year. Founded in 2004 by the Black Star Project, nearly 230 cities across America have encouraged fathers and families to engage in the education of their children. Since the March began in 2004, fathers and other significant male caregivers across the United States and around the world have gathered to accompany their children to their first or designated day of the new school year. Each annual MFM marks the beginning of a yearlong commitment by men to their children’s educational success. Fathers Incorporated has lead the Million Fathers March in schools across the United States since 2018.

The initiative provides an opportunity for dads, uncles, grandfathers, coaches, mentors, clergy, men’s groups and organizations to show their commitment to the educational lives of their children throughout the school year by escorting children to school on this day.  This is the real Father’s Day! Although the event is largely coordinated by Black men, women and men of all ethnicities are encouraged to take children to school on their first day of school.

Research shows that children whose fathers take an active role in their educational lives earn better grades, score higher on tests, enjoy school more and are more likely to graduate from high school and attend college. Additionally, children have fewer behavior problems when fathers listen to and talk with them regularly and are active in their lives. “This reality emphasizes the importance of engaging fathers in the educational of their children,” says Kenneth Braswell; Executive Director of Fathers Incorporated and founder of the literacy program; Real Dads Read.

The Evansville Commission on the Social Status of African-American Males promotes the Million Fathers March locally. Please email hrc@evansville.in.gov or call (812) 436-4927 for more information about the MFM.   For complete information about the MFM, you may visit www.millionfathersmarch.com or call (770) 804-9800.