Fatherhood Manologues Cohort #4: A Powerful Evening of Reflection and Healing
On August 24, 2024, My People Community Services and The Manhood Tree proudly sponsored the 4th cohort of the Fatherhood Manologues, a deeply moving and transformative event. This program, which brings together a diverse group of men, culminates in a powerful showcase where stories of fatherhood—whether as fathers themselves or as sons—are shared with an audience.
For 6-8 weeks, participants in the Fatherhood Manologues engage in a journey of self-discovery and emotional exploration. They are tasked with writing a compelling story about their experience of being a father or being fathered. But the program goes beyond storytelling; it provides a safe space for these men to confront and discuss the often complex feelings, emotions, struggles, and successes associated with fatherhood. Whether dealing with the pain of not being fathered, grappling with the challenges of being a father, or working through deep-seated "daddy issues," the Fatherhood Manologues offers a unique opportunity for reflection and growth.
The culmination of this experience is the Fatherhood Manologues show, where the men bravely share their stories with an audience. Each narrative is a testament to the complexities of fatherhood, exploring themes of love, loss, forgiveness, and resilience. The show not only allows these men to voice their personal journeys but also provides an opportunity for them to engage in a panel discussion. During this panel, the participants delve into the intricate details of their stories, offering further insight into their experiences and the healing process they’ve undergone.
The event was a profound success, bringing together community members, family, and friends to witness the powerful stories of fatherhood. It served as a reminder of the importance of providing spaces where men can express their emotions, share their experiences, and find support in one another.
The 4th cohort of the Fatherhood Manologues was not just an event but a celebration of growth, healing, and the enduring impact of fatherhood on our lives.
Video Performances
Frederick Douglass-Knowles
Khaiim Kelly
Patrick (Rico) Williams
Matthew Rivera
Leonard Epps
Wakieme Hauser
Melvin Chapman, Jr.
About the Fatherhood Manologues
The Fatherhood Manologues is a storytelling initiative created by Abdul-Rahmaan I. Muhammad through The Manhood Tree and My People Community Services. The program brings individuals together to reflect on their experiences with fatherhood; whether that experience comes from being a father or from being fathered.
The concept began in January 2020 as a way to create a meaningful space where people could explore the emotions, lessons, challenges, and triumphs connected to fathers and fatherhood. Participants come together over several weeks to write and develop their personal stories in a supportive environment that encourages honesty, reflection, and growth.
During the process, participants engage in group discussions that help them unpack their experiences, consider different perspectives, and sometimes work through unresolved feelings connected to their father or their role as a father. For many, the process becomes both a creative and healing experience.
The program culminates in a live performance where participants share their stories with the community. Each show is followed by a panel discussion that allows performers to reflect on their stories and discuss the deeper themes connected to fatherhood, family relationships, and personal identity.
Since its creation, the Fatherhood Manologues has brought together fathers, sons, daughters, and community members to share powerful stories that spark conversation, build understanding, and highlight the many ways fathers influence the lives of their children and families.
The Fatherhood Manologues is a storytelling initiative created by Abdul-Rahmaan I. Muhammad through The Manhood Tree and My People Community Services. The program brings individuals together to reflect on their experiences with fatherhood; whether that experience comes from being a father or from being fathered.
The concept began in January 2020 as a way to create a meaningful space where people could explore the emotions, lessons, challenges, and triumphs connected to fathers and fatherhood. Participants come together over several weeks to write and develop their personal stories in a supportive environment that encourages honesty, reflection, and growth.
During the process, participants engage in group discussions that help them unpack their experiences, consider different perspectives, and sometimes work through unresolved feelings connected to their father or their role as a father. For many, the process becomes both a creative and healing experience.
The program culminates in a live performance where participants share their stories with the community. Each show is followed by a panel discussion that allows performers to reflect on their stories and discuss the deeper themes connected to fatherhood, family relationships, and personal identity.
Since its creation, the Fatherhood Manologues has brought together fathers, sons, daughters, and community members to share powerful stories that spark conversation, build understanding, and highlight the many ways fathers influence the lives of their children and families.
