Fathers Rights

[Aswad Smith]

My Dear Brothers,

Although I have been a member of this organization for over 10 yrs., it is very evident that we are a social organization that would extend it's relationship after one's Degree seeking has been accomplished. But I write to you in hopes that my comment will motivate as many of you as possible.

As a black man & father is painfully clear that there are specific laws that are in place to keep us from being involved in our childrens lives. From false allegations of domestic violence to paternity fraud, the courts do not listen to what we have to say and seem to favor the women at all times. These specific women that hide behind these laws and abuse them make it even harder for us, MEN, BLACK MEN to make a difference.

These laws feed the philosophy of self hate, giving up, accepting the less than & not trying which results in broken families, incarceration, early death, drug abuse and a host of other issues.

I understand that we are not an organization of activism. However, this organization was founded during an era in history where "Activism" was at it's greatest. Laws were written by men (Men/Women) and they can be
re-written. We have the resources needed to make a difference and by God my brothers, "STAND UP" and make a difference.

Join me and other fathers, not just black men, but men of all color who wish to make a difference in our childrens lives by fighting back with the "Revolutionary Reform of Fathers Rights" It is our God given right and it should be recognized and enforced. Get involved with your local level fathers rights organization. It is our God given right and it should be recognized and enforced. We must organize ourselves as well as get involved with the local level fathers rights organization.

Fraternally,

Aswad Smith
617.594.6730
aswad_s@yahoo.com

[suntzu1963]

Bro. Smith,

It is brothers like yourself that remind me why this organization is about more than the social dynamics of Fraternal Organization life.

The Fraternity (at least from leadership) does concur with you about the importance of the role of fathers in the lives of their children and how it impacts our communities. Please check out the information about the "Developing Better Fatherhood Project" that the Fraternity has established to improve the involvement of fathers and the re-establishment of the family unit from the male prospective. http://www.iotaphitheta.org/serviceprogramslist.htm#DBF

Contact the National Director of Community at csdirector@iotaphitheta.org for more information.

Much respect frat!

[Aswad Smith]

Ow Ow Frat,

Thank you for the quick response. While I am surprised to see that there has been some initiative to curb fatherlessness, the issue still remains that "Fathers Rights" are not being recognized. We may learn about being involved with our children, but our rights are not being enforced. They are being ignored constantly.

What I would like to know is what are we doing or is there a plan while implementing this project to make sure that we as black men, fathers, are not being taken for granted as far as "Fathers Rights" go. The goal of equal parenting rights needs to be addressed.

Not all states recognize joint legal and joint physical custody of children and that is "The Major Problem.

-Aswad Smith
3-Sigma-91

[suntzu1963]

Bro. Smith,

While I appreciate your enthusiasm and feel your passion for this topic, I must remind that matters pertaining to the business of the Fraternity (ex: what we will do as a Fraternity in relation to the topic) should not take place on this message board (which is open to the public).

Now if you would like to talk to brothers outside of the guise of the Fraternity and to other men not affiliated with IOTA, that is an ok conversation on the board.

But so far as what are "we doing" as IOTAs, please post on the brothers-only board of the nat'l website to continue that conversation.

OW! OW!

[Aswad Smith]

Yes, this isssue is not only for Iotas, it is for all Men/Fathers. I will forward this to the brothers only section. I thought this was brothers only. I apologize.