Everyone saw the smile of a young black man but did not see the pain underneath. I grew up in a loving two parent household, just me and my sister. I was taught the values of being a black child in America, even though my skin lacked melanin, which I never paid attention to, until we move to Irvington, NJ. I was loved and being black is what I knew. During my childhood there was trauma that was never answered. We closed our eyes and life went on.

On May 15, 2013 I became a father to a precious baby girl. I was writing and directing films, traveling the country to film festivals, winning awards, and smiling through the acknowledgements. I was the comic relief, the guy you would like to have an open ear to listen. I also continue to serve as a social worker for close to 14 years now. I saw families daily going through a severity of problems from neglect and abuse. I was the counselor, listening to my family’s problems, but who did I have a shoulder to rely on. I knew something was inside of me, that was not being fulfilled mentally.

The days became longer and from all the love that was given from my family, I still felt empty. I decided to see my primary doctor and I was diagnosis with depression and anxiety in 2019. I then took the steps to heal.  I began therapy and was able to identify my triggers and become aware more of myself. I had to be better for me and I had to be better for my daughter Olivia.  I share this as a black man because I want my brothers to know that they are not alone. Mental health is a disease in the African American community, that needs to be addressed and it is time to be proactive. I told one of my brothers I was in therapy and he laughed. The stigma of “toughen up” and “it will pass”, is no longer accepted my brothers. Time to build for our children and be present. During those thoughts, the brand was born. I welcome you to share the word and wear our brand with pride. I am here with you, you are not alone, and we are all healing.

Black Fathers Unite is a way to provide positivity for my brothers as parents and leaders to their children. The brand represents four principles:

1. Accountability

2. Responsibility

3. Awareness

4. Self-Care

I smile now because I know the best is yet to come.

With Love, Olivia's Dad