In Colorado, residents know that the majority of custodial parents are women, which leaves fathers with only visitation rights. But, as society changes, so are many fathers, who are now pushing for their rights in order to be more involved with their children.
For years, black fathers were stereotyped as failing to live up to their responsibilities. Nowadays, more black fathers are becoming involved with their children, undergoing paternity tests and fighting over custody issues. The following cases are wonderful examples of black men who have become effective custodial parents.
One father became a custodial parent after he and his former girlfriend’s relationship fell apart. Their union produced three children ages 7, 8 and 12. The father and his ex-girlfriend created an informal agreement, making him the custodial parent since he was more capable of providing a nurturing environment for the children. According to the man, he does not want his children to grow up in foster homes, nor to suffer the same fate that he did.
The second father is a college graduate who owns an arts center. He became the custodial parent of his two children, ages 16 and 19, after a divorce from his wife of 18 years. The divorce was amicable and the father was awarded with primary custody of the children. Still, the children maintain a strong relationship with both parents and always consult with them when it comes to major decisions.
These men are an inspiration to all fathers who are facing child custody issues and other related concerns. It proves that they can step up and exercise their rights in order to be part of their children’s lives.
Source: Thegrio.com, “Responsible black fathers: America’s best kept secret?,” Kunbi Tinuoye, Jan. 15, 2014