In a move to provide a much-needed forum for fatherly discourse, Chicago's Daddy Victory Club has been making ripples across both real and virtual landscapes. Founded by Kouri Marshall, the club targets the dearth of parenting programs specifically tailored for fathers, uniting them over stroller walks and shared experiences. "From utero to throughout the pregnancy, through delivery, I noticed that she had a lot of resources available to her," Marshall said to Fox 32 Chicago, commenting on the support system available to his wife, but not to him as a father-to-be.
The Daddy Victory Club is not just a group but an affirmation. The club, designed to be a safe space for fathers, particularly aims to uplift Black dads. It encourages them to celebrate the small yet significant milestones of parenthood, or as Marshall puts it, "daddy victories." While pushing a stroller, Cameron Barnes told CBS News Chicago, "Joining this group, it allowed me to say the three words, and those words were 'I'm not okay.'" Even though it has strolled into the hearts of many, the group is inclusive, extending its fellowship to all fathers and father figures looking to be good parents.
These monthly 'Daddy Strolls' have become a cornerstone of the community, providing a platform for men to discuss their wins and challenges in fatherhood. With a video featuring dads and their strollers going viral, the Daddy Victory Club has caught the eyes of many fathers in the community, including Tomas House. As he saw the footage, House realized the impact of joining the ranks where Black fathers are celebrated. "Me being a proud dad, that was just a no-brainer for me," he conveyed his enthusiasm in an interview with Fox 32 Chicago.
Open to new members, the club continues to draw attention from those seeking to participate in its mission to empower Black fathers and strengthen communities. A wealth of information, including how to start a group, is available at the Daddy Victory Club website. The club's next gathering, an opportunity to meet and walk with others sharing the journey of fatherhood, is located in the South Loop at The Spoke and Bird this Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon, Fox 32 Chicago reports.
