In Dad We Trust: He Shows Up to Nurture Future Men and Women

The influence that fathers have on the lives of their children deserves more attention in our society. Fathers who participate in their children’s lives deserve greater appreciation and acknowledgement for the love and care that they provide. Fathers provide material needs, but when their presence is felt, a lasting impact outlives toys, tennis shoes, costumes, football cleats, and special treats. The lessons offered about how to get ahead in life, how to carry yourself appropriately in life, strategies to master problem-solving skills, and learning to value responsibility and integrity are all pieces of wisdom that a nurturing man can help a young life to put together over time. The lessons strong fathers provide outlast trends, social media fads, and peer pressure. What a man says to his child or children is priceless and so is taking action to demonstrate his instruction. It does not matter if fathers are married to the mother of their children, or if they are divorced from the other parent or married to her; fathers matter. 

Sentiments shared about fathers who reside in Maryland underscore these truths. They serve as examples of Black fathers showing up, and for the ones who do not, reading about them offers a chance to rethink why every child deserves someone to call “Dad.”

Dr. Damien Robinson

Profession: Founder/ CEO of DMRC Consulting

Executive Coach, Leadership Training and Development

Parenting role: Coparent/ divorced

Location: Odenton, Maryland

Dr. Damien Robinson believes that it is his responsibility to ensure that his two children feel seen, heard, valued, and—most importantly—loved. 

“My role is to instill respect, wisdom, and knowledge in both of them, and to guide them along their respective life journeys. With a 32-year-old son (Lawayne Long) and a 4-year-old daughter (Violet), my parenting philosophy is rooted in being a living example to both of my children,” he stated.

Camille Robinson coparents both children with Dr. Robinson. She describes him as a superhero.

“That’s exactly how Violet would describe him, too. Violet even calls him ‘Batman’ because of the way he shows up as a superhero for her. He’s extremely empathetic and has a way with words. He uses those words to inspire others and is at his best when he is working with young people. He has such a gift working at realizing others’ potential and pushing them forward. For Violet and Lawayne, he has been selfless, always ensuring that they have all the tools they need to succeed while he supports them. Finally, he also provides lots of laughter and fun in their lives and reminds us about the power of joy,” Robinson added.

She also noted that Dr. Robinson taught their son and daughter several valuable lessons.

 “The one that comes to mind is to never give up and that practice is always needed to master anything. He also has taught Violet daily affirmations that are important for a little Black girl growing up to build that self-confidence and self-worth.”

Violet expressed her affection for her father and mother.

“My daddy taught me that I am smart,” she declared. “I do love my daddy so much, and my mommy. He is great, brave, smart and beautiful.”

Violet stated that her father does “really cool stuff with her.”

“I like to do science with my daddy, dance parties, ride go-karts and get lots and lots of ice cream,” Violet shared.

 Dr. Robinson reads to his daughter, teaches her science, and works really hard so that she can have a lot of things.

“I also like when my daddy does my hair. He does it really good,” Violet added.

Robinson affirmed that fathers—Black fathers in particular— hold a powerful and sometimes under-recognized role in children’s lives. 

“Fathers are protectors, not just physically but emotionally, and also are nurturers all while teaching children critical lessons in life. An excellent father also allows their child to be seen. Fathers ultimately provide dependable love and important guidance, allowing children to safely explore their surroundings and identities and that’s exactly what Damien does,” she stated.

Jay Rogers 

“He puts our needs before his own, even when things are tough. He’s always trying to give us a better life.” –Jamira Rogers

Location: Severn, Maryland

Profession: Driver

Children benefit from being raised by fathers who lead by example. Jay Rogers, a father of three teenagers, offers support, stability and guidance to young people who look up to him daily. He exhibits a work ethic that impacts his children who pay attention to how he manages his role responsibly. 

Jamira reflected on how hard Rogers works and how he sacrifices for his children.

“My dad is a really hard worker. He always puts in a lot of effort to make sure we have what we need. He’s really caring and always wants what’s best for us. No matter what, he just wants us to be safe and happy,” Jamira Rogers said.

She mentioned that Rogers works long hours and sometimes misses out on things he wants to do to ensure that his children are well cared for; however, they need him.

Jaylen Rogers mentioned that his father taught him that if he wants something in life, he must work for it. Rogers’ open line of communication allows his children to benefit from his insightful advice.

“He always reminds me that I can’t just play games all day and expect things to happen. He wants me to be focused and not waste my time,” Jaylen shared.

The perceptive teen feels that dads are important because they give children someone to look up to in life. 

“They teach you stuff, help you when you need it, and show you how to be a better person,” Jaylen explained. 

He also stated that Rogers is an excellent example of fatherhood because he teaches his children to do the right thing and learn from his mistakes. 

“He wants us to have a better life and not go through the same struggles he did,” Jaylen mentioned.

His brother, Jakhi Rogers stated that having an involved dad makes a big difference in his life. He explained that Rogers is always there when he needs advice or support, and he pushes him to do better.

“Happy Father’s Day, Dad. Thanks for always being there and pushing me to be better, even when I don’t always show it. We appreciate everything you do for us,” Jahki added.

Anthony Tilghman

Profession: Executive Director of #MakeSmartCool Inc, Photojournalist, Author of “Amari Finds Her Courage”

Location: Prince George’s County

“My daughter Amari is the best thing that’s ever happened to me. She teaches me patience, resilience, and how to see the world differently. Her journey with autism inspired me to become an advocate—not just for her, but for other children and families navigating similar challenges. I want to be a voice and a resource for those who often go unheard.”

–Anthony Tilghman

Anthony Tilghman always dreamed of having a daughter. God made it happen. Tilghman said that his role in Amari Tilghman’s life is to love, protect, and guide her—especially as she navigates life with autism. 

“It’s a responsibility I take to heart every single day,” Tilghman stated.

Amari loves to dance and sing. Food always makes her smile. 

“It’s the little things that bring her happiness, and seeing her light up over something simple reminds me how important it is to appreciate life’s small blessings,” Tilghman explained. “I’m very hands-on and involved in every part of her life, especially when it comes to her needs as a child with autism.”

Amari is very attached to her father. He remarked that when he walks in the room her face lights up. He will never take it for granted and Tilghman deeply cherishes special daddy-daughter moments.

Tilghman and Shonice Griffin are in a relationship. The couple co-parents their daughter. 

Griffin describes Amari’s father as a determined, hard-working and resilient person who goes after anything he wants. Griffin recognizes that Tilghman’s willingness to continue to learn about being a parent, and how he strives to be the best present father, make him an excellent example of fatherhood. He stated that he is willing to continue to learn about being a parent, and he strives to be the best present father he can be. 

Tilghman learned to navigate life as a father of a child with a disability. Griffin further stated that she has seen him grow immensely because of fatherhood. 

“It’s pushing him to work harder to provide for our daughter’s needs. He is also learning to have more patience with her,” Griffin said.

Griffin has a message to share about the celebration of African American fatherhood.

“I would like the world to know that there are a lot of Black fathers involved in their children’s lives. It definitely should be displayed and acknowledged more because it’s more common than some people think.”