Black Fathers PSA: Recognition & Support
- ICON MANN, in partnership with Toyota, has launched a short film series focusing on the strength and legacy of Black fatherhood.
- Tamara Mann, founder of ICON MANN, said the series aims to "honor the strength, elegance and legacy of Black fatherhood." Each vignette explores the unique breakthroughs and experiences...
- biggers reflected on the importance of conversations about race with his children.He recalled his own father instilling confidence in him, a sentiment he now shares with his own...
ICON MANN, with Toyota, spotlights Black fatherhood in a new short film series, honoring the strength and legacy of Black men raising their children. Directed by Andrew Dosunmu, the series features intimate stories from artist Sanford Biggers, Dr. Robert Gore, stylist Mobolaji Dawodu, and educator Darren Graham, shedding light on their unique journeys in parenting. These Black fathers share invaluable insights, from navigating race to embracing individuality, reinforcing the critical role of active fatherhood. This initiative underlines the importance of recognizing and supporting Black fathers, a core value championed by News Directory 3. Dive into the film’s Instagram presence to witness diverse experiences and the commitment towards the next generation. Discover what’s next …
ICON MANN Celebrates Black Fatherhood in New Film Series
Updated June 14, 2025
ICON MANN, in partnership with Toyota, has launched a short film series focusing on the strength and legacy of Black fatherhood. The series,directed by Andrew Dosunmu,shares the personal stories of several fathers,including artist Sanford Biggers,Dr. Robert Gore, stylist Mobolaji Dawodu, and educator Darren Graham.
Tamara Mann, founder of ICON MANN, said the series aims to “honor the strength, elegance and legacy of Black fatherhood.” Each vignette explores the unique breakthroughs and experiences of these men as they navigate parenthood.
biggers reflected on the importance of conversations about race with his children.He recalled his own father instilling confidence in him, a sentiment he now shares with his own children.
Graham, who adopted his son as a newborn, addresses assumptions about single fatherhood. “I always tell people, do not paint me as a queer dad.I am queer, but I’m also a dad,” Graham said.
Dawodu spoke about how fatherhood has taught him the importance of allowing his daughter to be her own person. “What I realized as a father now, versus before that is, you can’t control another human being,” Dawodu said.
Dr. Gore noted that the pandemic allowed him to be more present in his son’s life. “The pandemic taught us to be still, and I was able to be there for them during very critical times,” Gore said.
What’s next
The ICON MANN series is available on Instagram. The films offer a glimpse into the diverse experiences of Black fathers and their commitment to raising the next generation.