January 23, 2015
In New York City, 1963, the nonprofit organization The 100 Black Men, was born out of the tumultuous struggle for civil rights in black communities across the country. It was the same year that Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech on the steps of the Lincoln monument in Washington, D.C, in which he spoke of a dream of equality and justice for all citizens of America regardless of race.
“These men, of like mind and amazing character prophetically realized that the only way to not lose ground was to prep the next generation…”
The 100 Black Men began with a group of concerned black men coming together to explore possibilities for a brighter future in America. Among the founding members were prominent names such as David Dinkins, Livingston Wingate, Andrew Hatcher, and Jackie Robinson.
The 100 Black Men’s motto is “what they see is what they will be”. This credo provides the philosophical foundation for the all of the organization's work, and expresses their belief that in order to change the future they must positively influence the lives of children today.
“This is our inspiration.” said Sims. “This is our calling.”
“These men, of like mind and amazing character prophetically realized that the only way to not lose ground was to prep the next generation for continued success, gains and growth. In other words, to instill, deep within the next generation, a vision of positive expectation.” said JR Sims, Chair of the Public Relations Committee with The 100 Black Men of Madison. The 100 Black Men of Madison carry the torch today as the organization's local chapter, and continue the quest to improve the lives of people within their local community. According to the organization's website, their mission is, “To improve the quality of life within our communities and enhance educational and economic opportunities for all African Americans.”
Sims believes that the inalienable rights of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” expressed in the Declaration of Independence have served as the core of American values. He also considers them "a portion of the cornerstone that Dr. King fashioned his campaign around.”
"The 100’ uses the spirit of Dr. King’s goals as the fuel to drive our work, and fulfill our mission." said Sims, "We believe through education, perseverance and mentorship, we can realize Dr. King’s vision.”
“This is our inspiration.” said Sims. “This is our calling.” The 100 Black Men of Madison was the recipient of 2012‐2013 Chapter of the Year Leadership Award in Education.
The 100 Black Men of Madison hosts and participates in numerous programs throughout the year aimed at improving lives within the community. One program the organization hosts is the African American History Challenge Bowl, in which Madison-area middle school students compete in teams answering questions regarding African-American history. According to their website the goal of the event is, “to encourage pride, self‐worth and an appreciation of the African American legacy and culture.”
The 100 have also hosted the local event Mingling, Mentoring, and Mama’s Treats; an event designed to foster inter-generational mentoring relationships. At the event, high school, college-age, and older men from the local black community are encouraged to attend in order to meet and share information with men with similar career interests.