Baltimore, MD — Associated Black Charities (ABC) brought together more than 100 men from across the region on November 14 for its third annual Men’s Night Out, an evening devoted to fellowship, honest conversation, and community-building. Held at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, this year’s gathering embraced the theme “Iron Sharpens Iron,” underscoring the collective strength found when men come together to uplift one another.
The night opened with candid discussions about men’s health, civic responsibility, cultural identity, education, and the daily realities Black men navigate in Baltimore and beyond. The atmosphere blended warmth and seriousness—good food, live music, and hallway reunions paired with moments of deep reflection.
A Keynote Rooted in Baltimore’s Realities
Educator and musician Dontae Winslow, the evening’s keynote speaker, delivered a moving address that traced his journey from West Baltimore to stages around the world. He spoke about the mentors who kept him grounded and the discipline that music instilled in him. Winslow shared, “The trumpet was my salvation,” reminding attendees of the transformative power of purpose, mentorship, and creative expression.
A Panel of Leaders Speaking Truth
A dynamic panel followed, featuring voices shaping Baltimore’s cultural and civic landscape.
- Dr. Haki Ammi urged men to deepen their commitment to civic engagement and service.
- Author and educator D. Watkins offered insight into his classroom approach, explaining how he uses music and contemporary culture to help young people understand history, identity, and truth.
- Robert Ginyard, a prostate cancer survivor and advocate, spoke passionately about men’s health, urging attendees to prioritize early detection and support one another in the journey toward wellness.
Together, the panelists sparked conversations that continued long after the formal program ended, as attendees lingered to share stories, exchange contacts, and build new bonds.
A Growing Space for Connection
Men’s Night Out has steadily expanded since its inception, and this year’s turnout affirmed the community’s hunger for intentional spaces where men can be open, supported, and inspired. ABC’s leadership emphasized that events like this are central to the organization’s mission of eliminating race-based barriers and strengthening economic and social opportunity for Black Marylanders.
The organization will continue its programming later this year with “Women on the Move” on December 5, bringing women from across the region together to discuss leadership, equity, entrepreneurship, and community impact.
As Men’s Night Out enters its fourth year, its purpose remains clear: to create room for honest dialogue, celebrate resilience, and model what solidarity among Black men truly looks like.
