Black Men and Boys
Perhaps the most dangerous issue facing Black men and boys in our country is racism itself. Throughout the history of America, Black men and boys have been subjected to systemic racism and discrimination that has profoundly shaped their experiences and opportunities. It is a tragic reality that Black males in America are treated as their own class of citizens. This treatment is reflected in social outcomes in such areas as education, criminal justice, health care, and employment.
Congresswoman Wilson is passionately dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by Black men and boys in America. She understands it is essential to dismantle the systemic barriers that have hindered their opportunities for far too long. Their journey to becoming a contributing and self-sustaining member of society, Congresswoman Wilson believes, begins at home.
The 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project began as 500 Role Models when the congresswoman was a Miami-Dade County School Board Member in March 1993 and has since spread across the state. Recognizing the lack of proper male role models in young Black boys’ homes, that was evidenced by the school-to-prison pipeline, it focuses on utilizing successful and progressive men in their communities as role models. By providing positive role models and fostering mentorship relationships, the program emphasizes education and career development, encouraging participants to set academic goals and aspire to higher education or vocational training, ensuring that young Black boys will never have to resort to crime in order to survive. It also offers life skills training in areas such as leadership and conflict resolution, while promoting community engagement through service projects that instill a sense of responsibility. Ultimately, the project aims to empower these young men by connecting them with a network of resources and opportunities, helping them become successful leaders in their communities.
Congresswoman Wilson was proud to introduce the Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys Act, which was signed into law in the summer of 2020. This landmark legislation establishes a permanent 19-member commission within the United States Commission on Civil Rights’ Office that will examine the societal disparities that disproportionately affect Black males in America. The commission will review police brutality, gun violence, fatherhood, recruiting and training Black male teachers, and even sneakers. The senseless murders of George Floyd, Trayvon Martin and too many other Black boys and men have forced our nation to look within and finally acknowledge the atrocities black males face simply because of the color of their skin. Too many Black men are losing their lives as a result of racism, bigotry, and hate. The Commission on the Status of Black Men and Boys is an urgent and necessary victory for social justice.
Through these efforts, Congresswoman Wilson aims to create a more equitable future for Black men and boys, empowering them to thrive and succeed.