016 Raising Black Boys Special

Big Chat Small Talk Podcast with Louise Anderson and Vernie Bennett

Raising boys is a unique and profound experience, one filled with love, hope and the unwavering belief in our son's potential. But as a black boy, it can also be a journey fraught with obstacles, stereotypes and systemic injustices that threaten to derail their dreams. Raising black boys in Britain comes off its own set of challenges and considerations.

Joining us today to discuss this are Aaron Dale, father of two and podcast host of Raising Boys 2 Men and Andrez Harriott, singer in the chart-topping band Damage, a criminologist and the CEO of TLG, an organisation that works closely with disadvantaged and vulnerable children.

We'll delve deep into the joys and triumphs of parenting black boys, celebrating their brilliance, creativity and resilience in the face of adversity. We’ll also confront the harsh realities and painful truths surrounding race, discrimination and inequalities that we as parents fear may shape their lived experiences.

What is Covered:

-How identity is seen and valued in Britain

-How to raise boys from Africa and the Caribbean within the British context

-The power of popular culture and the community in creating a positive self-image of black boys

-Character before colour - how one’s character fights against structural issues

-“The Talk” that parents need to have with their children about the systemic obstacles they may encounter while growing up

-The challenges of raising children in interracial relationships

-How to build resilience within the community and help black boys thrive as children and young adults

-The need for safe spaces for men to be open, vulnerable and to work on handling their emotions

-How and where black boys can find positive role models for themselves

Resources:

-Listen to the Raising Boys 2 Men Podcast hosted by Aaron Dale https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/raisingboys2men-podcast/id1625584737

-Connect with Andrez Harriott https://www.instagram.com/andrezharriott/

-Let’s connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigchatsmalltalk/

-Subscribe to be the first to know about new content https://linktr.ee/bigchatsmalltalk

-Send a Voice Message to Big Chat Small Talk https://www.speakpipe.com/BigChatSmallTalk