Time to Step Up: The Plunge in African American Male Literacy and Our Call to Action

written by a member of the WCB

In recent years, we've witnessed a disturbing trend—African American male literacy rates have taken a nosedive. Yeah, you heard that right. While we’re all talking about progress and equality, we’ve got a damn crisis on our hands that we can't ignore any longer. It's high time we address this issue head-on, especially as members of the Christian brotherhood.

Let's face it, brothers. The statistics paint an ugly picture. Many young black men are struggling to read and write at levels that should be unacceptable in a society that prides itself on freedom and opportunity. This is not just a problem for the individuals affected; it's a communal failure, and we need to claim that responsibility. We’ve always preached about unity and brotherhood. So why the hell aren’t we doing more to uplift one another?

The reasons behind this literacy decline are complex and deeply rooted in systemic issues. Economic disparities, underfunded schools, and lack of access to resources all play a role in the ongoing struggle for education. But blaming the system only gets us so far. As believers, we should've known better than to leave our brothers behind, waiting for someone else to pick up the slack.

It’s on us to step in and make a difference. We can't just sit on our hands while the futures of these young men dim. We have the tools to help—mentorship, community programs, and increased funding for educational initiatives. We’ve got to rally together, as a church and as a community, to push for change. Each of us needs to ask: “What am I doing to support my fellow brothers?”

We need to throw our weight behind literacy programs and educational initiatives designed specifically for African American males. Let’s not kid ourselves; showing up once a year isn't gonna cut it anymore. This is about committing time and resources to help pull our brothers up. Giving a few bucks to the collection plate won’t fix shit if we’re not actively involved in our communities.

Brothers, it’s time to unite and fight for the education of African American males. The stakes are high—lives are at risk when literacy takes a backseat. Our faith calls us to bless others, not just with words but with actions. Let’s show up for each other, not just in church but in the real world. It’s our duty to ensure that every young black man has the opportunity to succeed and break the cycle of illiteracy.

We can't afford to stand idly by while the literacy rates take a hit. It's our responsibility to engage deeply with our community, sacrifice our time, and do whatever it takes to lift each other up. This isn't just a challenge; it’s a moral obligation. So let’s get to work, brothers. The future of our community depends on it. No more bullshit—it's time to step up!