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June 15th 2002 was a significant day (apart from the England - Denmark match). The 100 Black Men of London and Birmingham managed to achieve three coachloads and nil disappointment for scores of young people on a day trip to Thorpe Park.
Our annual event, entitled 'Quality Time in celebration of Fathers Day' was sponsored this year by Mighty Malt and saw a pilgrimage of black men and their young relatives, to Thorpe Park, the day before Fathers Day.
On the outbound journey, participants took part in a competition, in which they were asked what Quality Time meant to them. One young passenger wrote almost poetically of having an 'active bond' with his father, another of spending time learning and having fun with people he idolised. A father, expressed his desire to 'be there to guide and educate' his children whenever they needed him.
"The 100 firmly believe of children that 'What they see is what they'll be". Fatherhood is not a one day activity, but on this day the children saw undeniably constructive images: groups of black men taking responsiblity for them, interacting with them, educating them and having fun - all at once. It was heart-warming".
"This year we saw many new faces: and the positive and eloquent feedback given by the young people, along with the smiles on every face, validated the whole purpose of this event and contribute to the substantiate our goals.
Quality Time indeed!
On the return trip, the children were invited to participate in a competition and express their impressions of the day; and express them they did. Some stated that it was their first time in such a large, 'men only' group, and that they enjoyed the experience. *See below for winning entry. One young lady simply decided to burst into song - joined by the remainder of her coach.As time progresses, the 100 intend to attract even greater representation from black men who are prepared to step forward and take on responsibility for the development of the children in their communities. Next year we'll have more coaches - and hopefully, improved nappy changing facilities.
Quality comptetion sponsored by Malt Might
*Quality Time for me is having an active bond between me and my father, spending quality time doing the things that we both enjoy which is why I think the 100 Black Men's 'Quality Time' is a meaningful event. - Nathan
