On two continents, Fathers march for education

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by Wendell A. LaGrand

A jump start was given to Chicago students and students nationwide, as they began their 2010-2011 school year. It was an organized, coordinated effort for parents, especially fathers, to accompany their children on the first day of school.

The Million Father March, a growing movement in Chicago, the nation and on two continents, including Africa, is a grassroots effort for grades K through 12 designed to support childrens education, development of socialization skills, while promoting safety in schools.

Although the march was created by Black men, women and men of all ethnicities were encouraged to participate. Because of the similar socio-economic and educational issues within

their communities, special efforts have been made in the past to coordinate the march with

Latinos. Last year, over 600,000 fathers and other men in 500 cities participated.

The march is meant to bring fathers into the life and education of their children, Million Father March Director Bruce Walker said. It makes a difference in how the child behaves as they get older.

Kids raised with fathers are more likely to be a career person and pass the parenting skills on to their childrengive the child a family structure. It goes from generation to generation, he said.

When fathers are present at schools on the first day, the environment is orderly, productive and peaceful.

We are trying to let men know they are important in the schools. We want to let them know its okay to come to the school to volunteer. If you see fathers before and after school, there is a lesser chance of fights and gang recruitment, just because a man is present, Walker said.

It was electrifying to see parents and the grandparents coming together to support the

kids, says East Chicago, Coordinator, Benita Arnold, and also a member of the faith based organization, Working Outside the Walls, which helped to organize the event.

To see the support mechanics between the parents and grandparents, sends a message that we expect something from the child, Arnold said.

As part of the Los Angeles march, fathers were asked to read an oath pledging support for their children.

The Million Father March is not just a one day event. It is a year-long commitment that men make to their children and their families, including pledges to volunteer, mentor, tutor, coach, chaperon and become school board members .

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