So, who are The Dad Gang?
Pioneered in 2016 by Sean Williams, a proud father of three, The Dad Gang was inspired by an encounter in Long Island, New York.
Sean remembers how a woman approached him and his daughter in a market and said: “It’s so good to see you stuck around. It’s so good to see that you’re an active dad.” Sean was shocked that Black men aren’t viewed as caring, active dads by so many people. So, he started The Dad Gang to challenge negative stereotypes of Black fatherhood – and it didn’t take long for other amazing Black dads to join him.
From videos that capture fatherhood stories every dad can relate to, to tips that help fathers care for themselves and the people they love, The Dad Gang are not just celebrating Black fatherhood as caring, active and present – they’re showing how all fathers can be positive role models for their kids, friends, families, colleagues and communities.
In an interview with CBS, Sean says: “I hope it sticks in the minds of those who thought we were MIA, that despite what the world says, despite the stereotypes that are out there, [Black dads] are dad goals.”
How else are The Dad Gang taking action?
Sean also hosts events like Strollin’ with the Homies and the annual March of Dads, where fathers walk side-by-side to show the world Black dads are “active AF”.
Joining the March of Dads rally in 2021, Bronx councilman Kevin Riley told the Brooklyn Paper: “The reason why we’ve come together is to show solidarity, because Black fathers are involved in their children’s lives. Black fathers are very, very active and that’s why we’ve come to walk with our brothers.”
In 2020, The Dad Gang also started Random Acts of Dadness, a nonprofit which helped support dads financially during the pandemic. In 2021, the organization also provided strollers for dads in Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx.
How can I help fight harmful stereotypes?
Our recent study suggests less than half of Black dads believe mainstream media, social media and popular culture portray them accurately.* But Black dads are here, caring for their kids every single day. That’s why, alongside Sean and The Dad Gang, we’re committed to changing the way the world sees Black fatherhood.
Take action now and help us fight harmful stereotypes by following The Dad Gang and these other inspirational Black dads. It’s time to celebrate Black fathers and the true story of Black fatherhood on everybody’s feed.
*Survey of 2,000 US adults and 500 Black fathers conducted by Edelman DXI on behalf of Dove Men+Care (20-30 May 2022).
