From Vision to Legacy: Black Fathers Unite! at ABFF 25

June 2025 was more than a milestone — it was a moment. A full-circle moment that reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.

For years, I dreamt of screening one of my films at the American Black Film Festival (ABFF). The dream didn’t manifest how I first imagined — but God and life had other plans. This year, I was invited in a different way: through Black Fathers Unite, I had the honor of designing a custom Letterman Jacket for the founder himself, Jeff Friday, commissioned by the brilliant and award-winning Okema T. Moore.

This wasn’t just a fashion project. It was legacy work. A tribute to fatherhood. A statement that Black creatives show up in all forms — film, fabric, and purpose.

But the moment grew even bigger…

🎥 “Laundry” by Okema T. Moore

Okema didn’t just commission the jacket. She also premiered her powerful short film “Laundry” at ABFF 2025, winning the Black & Unlimited Fatherhood Project Director’s Competition.

The film follows a father navigating grief after his son’s tragic accident — and finding healing in the most ordinary place: a laundromat. It was one of three award-winning films to premiere, with mentorship, a $10,000 award, and a moving panel.

“Laundry” streamed on ABFF PLAY and Walmart’s YouTube from June 16–24 — expanding the reach of this story to audiences worldwide.

 Our Presence Was Felt

To our signature "Black Fathers Unite" letterman and jersey worn proudly at the festival — we showed up.

This wasn’t just a June recap. It was a declaration:

Black fathers are here. And we’re doing more than showing up — we’re building legacies.

Thank you to everyone who continues to support this mission.

See the full recap on our Instagram and visit www.blackfathersunite.com to rock with the movement.

Da Bruddas

Black Fathers Unite

@blackfathersunite_ (IG)