Black Dads Matter

In honor of today being Father’s Day, I decided to spend some time reflecting on my own personal relationship with my dad and the impact it’s had on my life. I know for some, celebrating holidays like Mother’s and Father’s Day can be difficult if a parent has passed away or if there’s a strained relationship with a parent. Particularly in the Black community, it seems as though fathers carry a stereotype for being absent from their children’s lives which can make conversations about this day really difficult for some. Still, as a Black woman, I recognize how important it was to have my dad around, and my heart goes out to those who struggle with days like Father’s Day.

Daddy’s Presence

I really can’t think of a time my dad hasn’t been there. He showed up for ball games, school plays, and honor roll assemblies. I can remember always looking out in the audience and seeing his face. As a kid, I thought that was just what he was supposed to do, but now as an adult I realize that just his presence and support meant so much.

Daddy’s Protection

My dad is super protective, especially with his girls. He’s never given me a super hard time when it came to guys, but I know he doesn’t play either, lol. He’s always said, “if ya’ll’s boyfriends want to stay on my good side, then they better not do anything to hurt my girls.” Even now as an adult, he makes sure I call him whenever I make it to my destination, and he even stays on the phone with me until I’m in the house safe.

Daddy’s Positivity

To know my dad is to love him. I know he has bad days, but he always tries to see the good in everything and everybody. In some of my most difficult storms, my dad has been a calming sense of peace. He has the ability to bring humor to any situation, and that’s meant the most on the days that have been hard to smile.

I’ve often heard it stated that girls look for their dads in the men they date and marry, and for me I think that’s true for the most part. I don’t know how my Mr. Right is going to come packaged, but I do know he has big shoes to fill. Dad, thanks for your presence in my life. It’s made all the difference in the world.

Aaliyah Moore is a contributing writer for the Pedestal Project, LLC. Aaliyah enjoys spending time with her family and is a lover of food, writing, and Quartet Gospel music. She is a higher education professional and loves the impact she gets to make in the lives of college students, every day. You can follow her on Instagram @aaliyah.m.moore.