'Real Men Read': Chicago program connects students with male role models to promote literacy
CHICAGO - Gary Comer Middle School in Chicago’s Grand Crossing neighborhood brought literacy to life for its students on Friday.
The school hosted what it calls the "Real Men Read" event — a first of its kind at the school.
Real Men Read
What we know:
Organized by teacher Rashad Davis, the program paired middle school students with male role models from the local community and fraternities, like the Divine 9 and the Comer Black Male Initiative.
The volunteers read to the students, shared their life stories, and encouraged them to dream big.
Davis highlighted the significance of representation and mentorship in literacy, especially for young Black boys.
Local author Willie Williams participated by introducing his collection of 16 books written for Black youth. Much of his writing tells his story of growing up in Chicago and pursuing his dreams.
Williamson also hosted interactive workshops on writing and reading, reinforcing the idea that every student has a unique story to tell.
What they're saying:
"We felt it is important for older men and men from fraternities, Black men, to give back to our community, to our young kings, and teach them the importance of literacy," said Davis.
"It is very important, we feel, that our young Black kings see themselves not only in the books that they read but in the content of the various curriculums," he added.
Big picture view:
The "Real Men Read" event aims to not only educate the youth on life and striving for excellence, but also to motivate and inspire them to read more.