Fathers, grandfathers, and other male role models gathered yesterday at Moravia Park Elementary in Baltimore for the Million Fathers March, a national event designed to highlight the importance of men’s involvement in children’s education, WMAR-TV (ABC affiliate) reports.
The school hosted games, music, and photo opportunities before families paraded through lines of cheering supporters.
Organizers say the event is about more than one morning of fun — it’s about showing students that the adults in their lives and their broader community are invested in their success. “It shows the support from men in the community,” said Jamal Moses, who attended with his granddaughter.
Now in its third year at Moravia Park, the march has become a tradition that blends celebration with connection. The school also leverages local resources for families, helping to strengthen ties that support students’ well-being and academic growth.
National Scope
The official Fathers Incorporated site describes the Million Fathers March, which takes place on the third Friday of September every year, as uniting “communities nationwide to celebrate and champion fathers’ involvement in their children’s education”:
“The Million Fathers March (MFM) is an opportunity for dads, uncles, grandfathers, coaches, mentors, clergy, men’s groups and organizations to show their commitment to the educational lives of their children throughout the school year by escorting children to school.”
The Atlanta-based organization launched the Million Fathers March in 2004 as a national intiative. There’s even an official toolkit to help local schools and school districts prepare for and promote the event.
The Atlanta Daily World reports that the march was held in many schools in many states this year, saying it “is a national movement” that now includes “31 states … 111 cities … 140 registered schools,” including the Hayward Unified School District in California.