TAL works to change the perception of African American males. TAL addresses issues that foster misperceptions of African American men and works to change those perceptions preventing African American men from obtaining employment and work skills that would enable them to support their families and contribute to society, thereby contributing to positive social change in the urban communities.
How we change the perception is key to eliminating the underlying effects of these stereotypical images. Thus, the vision of “Take Another Look”, a Docufilm, places the responsibility of this perception in the hands of those the perception affects. “Take Another Look” is an entertaining, dramatization with commentary that illustrates the life challenges, trials, tribulations, and difficulties black men face in our society. The Docufilm forces you to “Take Another Look” and see how African American men are making a positive impact in their families, community and society as a whole.
A case study conducted by NCUS TEC over a three year period found black males possessed a desire to work but because of societal views, past experience, incarceration or other issues have not been employable by mainstream society.
The negative media image of black males has become so ingrained in our society that we participate in the concept of ‘prison-industrial communities”, where fear is created and America is more willing to fund prisons than, schools and programs that positively impact the lives of black males. There is an immediate need to look at alternative measures for affecting behavior.
Issues Illustrated:
I. Dramatization of Society’s view of Black Men
II. Personal problems & commentary
III. Economic Issues of Black America
IV. Underlying Issues of Slavery and the impact on our men today
V. Corporate America & Black Women
VI. Editorials and Personal Commentary
Conclusion: Solution-- NCUS TEC School for adults
To see video clip, please visit:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rplehd90XZY
Urban Wellness Initiative (UWI)
Showcased by the annual African American Family Walk for Health and Knowledge, UWI is an awareness initiative designed to promote health and wellness in the urban community. The mission is to help African American Males in particular, understand the importance of their family history and health, and to promote healthy lifestyles and interventions in order to prevent chronic health diseases.
WHY THE WORK IS IMPORTANT?
There is a crisis in minority men's health-especially African American men, where the best evidence shows that they have much higher rates of illness and mortality.
HOW WE BEGAN?
NCUS TEC began hosting conversations with African American males surrounding issues impacting health. It became apparent that there is a great need to begin educating men around these issues in order to impact change.
Additional Facts of the 194 screened in 2008:
• 128 men have an ‘at risk’ family history
• 70% of the men are determined overweight
• 89% of the men have frequent urination issues
For more information, please visit www.aawalk.org
