Nepotism and Black Fatherhood: Which Way You Want It — Dads In or Dads Out?

Kenneth Braswell
CEO, Fathers Incorporated

In the 2024 NBA Draft, the 55th pick was none other than Bronny James, son of NBA legend LeBron James. Rather than celebrating this achievement, a storm of backlash ensued, accusing LeBron of leveraging his influence to bolster his son’s career.

This uproar is emblematic of a broader societal issue: the stigmatization of engaged Black fathers, particularly when their involvement is perceived as nepotism. This op-ed explores the paradoxical nature of society’s expectations of Black fathers, highlighting both historical and contemporary examples.

Historical Context: The Moynihan Report and Its Legacy

The struggles of Black fathers have been documented as far back as the 1965 Moynihan Report, which detailed the challenges faced by Black families in America. The report laid much of the blame for social ills within Black communities on the perceived absence and irresponsibility of Black fathers. This narrative has been perpetuated for decades, creating a societal expectation that Black men are inherently disengaged from their children’s lives.

The Reality: Black Fathers Are Among the Most Engaged

Contemporary research challenges the negative stereotype and tells a very different story. PEW Research reveals that Black fathers are the most engaged cohort of fathers in the United States, actively participating in their children’s lives more than any other demographic group. This evidence upends the prevailing narrative and highlights a significant discrepancy between perception and reality.

Modern Examples of Active Black Fathers

The backlash against LeBron James for his involvement in Bronny’s career is not an isolated incident. LaVar Ball faced similar criticism for his active role in his sons’ basketball careers, and Deion Sanders has been scrutinized for his deep involvement in his sons’ football journeys. These fathers are castigated for their engagement, even though their actions mirror those of their white counterparts.

The Double Standard: White Fathers and Nepotism

Consider Archie Manning, who famously refused to let his son Peyton play for the team that drafted him. This was seen as a father looking out for his son’s best interests. Similarly, Patrick Mahomes, Sr., has been praised for his role in his son’s development as an NFL superstar. The contrasting reactions to these similar behaviors expose a racial double standard in how society views paternal involvement.

Usher’s Speech: Elevating the Narrative

Usher’s acceptance speech for the BET Lifetime Achievement Award offers a profound reflection on the complexities and importance of Black fatherhood. He candidly discusses his journey and the absence of his own father, which shaped his perception and drive. Usher’s narrative underscores the resilience and commitment required of Black fathers to overcome societal expectations and negative stereotypes.

Usher’s acknowledgment of influential figures like Quincy Jones and Harry Belafonte, along with his mother’s dual role, further amplifies the message that Black fathers and parental figures play critical roles in the success of their children. His celebration of LeBron James and his son Bronny aligns with the idea that fathers should be celebrated, not condemned, for their active involvement.

Fathers Incorporated: Challenging the Narrative

At Fathers Incorporated, we have worked tirelessly to shift these perceptions. Our Gentle Warriors Academy has seen over 750 graduates in the last three and a half years, most of whom are Black fathers from Metro Atlanta. These men have committed to being present and active in their children’s lives, yet society’s perception remains stubbornly negative.

This work is not unique to Fathers Incorporated. Across the country, similar programs are helping Black fathers reclaim their roles and reshape the narrative surrounding Black fatherhood.

The Question We Must Ask

Given this context, we must consider these important questions: 

• Why does society react so negatively to engaged Black fathers? 
• Why are their efforts to support and advance their children’s careers seen as overbearing or inappropriate, while similar actions by white fathers are praised? 

This contradiction is not only unfair but also damaging, as it perpetuates harmful stereotypes and undermines the efforts of Black fathers who are striving to be positive role models for their children.

In conclusion, backlashes against LeBron James, LaVar Ball and Deion Sanders underscore a broader societal issue. Rather than condemning Black fathers, it’s time to recognize and celebrate their active engagement. At Fathers Incorporated, we will continue to advocate for this recognition, ensuring that all fathers, regardless of race, are appreciated for their efforts to be present in their children’s lives. 

Society must decide: Do we want dads in or dads out?

About Kenneth Braswell
Kenneth Braswell is the CEO of Fathers Incorporated, a leading nonprofit dedicated to promoting responsible fatherhood and strengthening families. Under his leadership, the organization has become a national voice for fatherhood advocacy, providing resources, support, and training for fathers. Braswell’s work focuses on reshaping perceptions of fatherhood and fostering positive father-child relationships across diverse communities.

Pew Research Center

https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2013/06/14/the-new-american-father