NBC News Feature: Black Men Smile prioritizes Black joy in bleak times

We are honored and deeply grateful to be this spotlight feature in this national NBC News coverage amplifying the story of Black Men Smile—our origins, our impact, and our unwavering commitment to celebrating Black joy. This moment is a reflection of the work we’ve done, the community we have formed with you, and the work still ahead.

The article highlights the genesis of Black Men Smile, born in a time of profound conflict and uncertainty following the tragic death of Mike Brown. What began as a simple yet powerful affirmation—that Black men’s joy is revolutionary—has grown into a movement that challenges harmful narratives, fosters community, and embraces the full humanity of Black men across the world.

As we find ourselves in another critical moment, with rollbacks on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives and increasing challenges to spaces that affirm our existence, this feature is a reminder of why we do this work. It is a call to continue, to expand, and to deepen our commitment to joy as resistance, as healing, and as power.

We extend our deepest gratitude to journalist Char Adams for telling our story, to our supporters for believing in this mission, and to every Black person who has dared to smile despite it all.

This is just the beginning. More to do. More to come.

Read the Full Story HERE: