5 Black Dads Share What They Actually Want For Father’s Day

Father’s Day is more than just neckties and grill sets—it’s a moment to reflect on the joys, sacrifices, and sacred bonds of fatherhood. 

The recognition and celebration of Black fathers is not just a cultural observation but a crucial acknowledgement of their significant contributions, resilience and multifaceted roles within families and communities. They are pillars of strength, sources of guidance, and exemplars of love. Often, their stories and experiences are overlooked or underrepresented, making it even more vital to create space for their voices and to honor their presence.

This Father’s Day, let us consciously extend our appreciation and respect, recognizing that valuing Black fathers means supporting their well-being, amplifying their narratives, and acknowledging the unique challenges they may face. It is about reinforcing the idea that their fatherhood matters, their dedication is seen and their contributions are invaluable.

We asked five incredible Black fathers from around the U.S. to share what Father’s Day means to them: the gifts they’ve longed for, the ideal day they’d design and the moments that have meant the most. Their stories are filled with love, laughter and lessons we all can learn from.

Charles Gilford III

Location: Denver | Pronouns: He/Him
The Gifts Dads Actually Want
“I’ve always wanted a dog for Father’s Day. For me, it’s less about the pet and more about being intentional with my wellness. Whether it’s a workout or companionship, I’ve learned that taking care of myself helps me show up better as a father.”
Dream Father’s Day Agenda
“Sleep in—rare for me. Wake up to pray, journal, reflect. Then a healthy breakfast and hugs from my kids. A good workout, 120-minute massage, hot tub time, and a nap. I’d love to finish little house projects, shop for myself and wrap the day with dinner and handmade cards from my children.”
Why the Best Gift Might Be Time, Not Ties
“My daughter once drew a picture and my son colored it—I keep it in my office. But the most meaningful moment was finding out I was going to be a dad. I cried tears of joy. I’d wanted that since I was six.”
What Dads Wish Their Families Knew
“Being a father is my reason for being. It’s the center of my life. It’s about every diaper, every park trip, every prayer. Father’s Day is a moment to honor the sacred responsibility of showing up, consistently, in love.”

Marquise Ryan

Title: CEO, Father Figures Brand
Location: Chicago | Pronouns: He/Him
The Gifts Dads Actually Want
“I’ve always wanted something handwritten or hand-drawn from my daughter—something just for me. It doesn’t have to be fancy. I want something personal that I can keep forever.”
Dream Father’s Day Agenda
“My daughter jumping on me yelling, ‘Happy Father’s Day!’ Pancakes, a trip to the park, maybe mini golf or swimming. End the day with a movie and some good food—just the two of us chilling.”
Why the Best Gift Might Be Time, Not Ties
“One year, she hugged me tight and said, ‘I love you, Daddy.’ That kind of moment? It hits harder than anything wrapped in a bow.”
What Dads Wish Their Families Knew
“It’s not about perfection—it’s about feeling seen. I just want to be acknowledged for showing up, for giving love and time. I’m trying to be the father I never had.”

Barrett Newsome

Location: Nashville, Tenn. | Pronouns: He/Him
The Gifts Dads Actually Want
“I’m not big on gifts, but if I could choose one? A full day of zero responsibilities.”
Dream Father’s Day Agenda
“I’d start early—no sleeping in for me. Breakfast with the kids, then a peaceful round of golf. Maybe DJ a little, relax, watch some sports. End the day with dinner and a nightcap with my wife. That’s a win.”
Why the Best Gift Might Be Time, Not Ties
“My wife once gave me a keychain that says ‘Blake & Daddy’ with a little fist bump. Every time I grab my keys, it reminds me why I do what I do. It’s small, but it carries so much meaning.”
What Dads Wish Their Families Knew
“My family gets it. They love me out loud—year-round. That’s all I ever really need.”

Joseph Graham

Location: Charlotte, N.C. | Pronouns: He/Him
The Gifts Dads Actually Want
“This is my first Father’s Day, so I don’t have a wishlist—just being with my family is enough.”
Dream Father’s Day Agenda
“Hiking or fishing in the morning, ride ATVs, shoot targets. Come back for brunch and a 90-minute massage. Then just hang—BBQ, fry some fish, smoke a cigar, sip cocktails, and tell tall tales with my people.”
Why the Best Gift Might Be Time, Not Ties
“Whatever I get this year will be the most meaningful. It’s my first one, so everything will feel special.”
What Dads Wish Their Families Knew
“I’m chill and low-key. I don’t need bells and whistles—just good vibes and quality time with the people I love.”

Correy Plunkett

Location: Atlanta | Pronouns: He/Him
The Gifts Dads Actually Want
“An all-expense-paid vacation for just me and my wife. Island, all-inclusive, no responsibilities.”
Dream Father’s Day Agenda
“Wake up naturally, go for a run and workout. Eat a homemade breakfast—brioche French toast, chicken sausage, fresh fruit. Watch some sports or Big Bang Theory, take a nap, then a family walk on the Beltline and dinner out. Bonus if someone entertains my daughter during dinner.”
Why the Best Gift Might Be Time, Not Ties
“My wife made my first Father’s Day special by telling me how much she appreciated the way I show up for our daughter. That meant more than anything you could buy.”
What Dads Wish Their Families Knew
“It’s not just about me—it’s about us. I’m grateful for the chance to lead and love my family. That’s what I’m celebrating.”