30 men march to spread a message of hope

We walked through the Waylyn neighborhood Tuesday night, hoping to save at least one young black man from the perils of North Charleston street life.

We didn't badger, scold or preach to those we encountered on our walk through a neighborhood plagued by poverty and violence. Instead, we shook hands, exchanged phone numbers and spoke encouraging words. Most were receptive to us.

A few mothers saw us walking the darkened streets, inquired about the gathering and sent their young sons to join us.

Nearly 30 men came from all walks of life — some Christian, some Muslim, some blue collar, some professional. Despite our differences in background, we were united for one purpose: to mentor and provide a positive influence in a community thirsting for it.

I am a journalist. But I am a resident of North Charleston first. And I too have watched the nightly news and read in frustration the headlines proclaiming the violence perpetrated by young black men.

Many nights I have gone to bed saddened.

But I left this gathering encouraged. These faithful few see the need for positive black male role models and are meeting that need.

I am a graduate of Morehouse College, a historically black, all-male institution. I know full well the potential of black men and feel passionate about seeing us move forward.

Those who have succeeded must reach back and help the young black boys whose lives hang in the balance. In an era when fathers are so often absent, someone must stand in the gap.

Thomasina Hartwell heard about the march and sent her 17-year-old son Kwamane to walk with us.

Hartwell is determined to see her son succeed, despite the odds stacked against him.

She calls herself an overprotective mother and a constant presence at Military Magnet Academy, where Kwamane is a junior and an honor roll student. She doesn't allow him to hang out on school nights or have friends that she doesn't know.

When asked what made the difference in her son's life Hartwell responded: "By getting involved with Kwamane and staying on him."

Thomas Ravenell, who helped organize the event, said the marchers will stay in touch with the men they meet and act as their mentors. The group will meet again at 7 p.m. Monday at the Oak Grove Community Center in North Charleston.

"We will meet once a week until the end of year until our message goes out that we don't want no more killings," Ravenell said.

Reach Jasiri Whipper at 745-5863 or jwhipper@postandcourier.com.