One Million Fathers Asked to Lead the Nation Back to School this Fall

An estimated 650 cities could participate in the largest, organized back-to-school effort in U.S. history.

On Sunday, August 29, 2010, Illinois Fathers along with affiliate Black Star Project USA are sponsoring the Million Father March 2010 for the first-day-of-school in nearly 500 cities across America.

Peoria will hold their march at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 29, 2010 and leave from three different launch sites. Marchers will leave from Woodruff High School’s parking lot, Central High School's Parking lot and City of Refuge. They will march to Liberty Park where a short rally will be held and a call out will be made to fathers to accompany their children on the first day of school. We are asking that at least 1,000 fathers participate from Peoria.

Past. Spencer Gibson and Carl Cannon will speak on the importance of fathers involvement in their children’s education and the integrity singers will perform. Light refreshments will be served.

Participants in the event include fathers, grandfathers, foster fathers, stepfathers, uncles, cousins, big brothers, significant male caregivers and friends of the family. Although this event is created by Black men, women and men of all ethnicities are also encouraged to take their children to school on their first day.

Businesses are asked to give fathers and men two hours off that morning (with pay) to take their children to school. Participating men will also be encouraged to volunteer at schools throughout the year.

The 2010 Million Father March is sponsored in part by Peoria School District #150, The Black Star Project, Heart of Peoria Neighborhood Association and Illinois Fathers. You may also email general.parker@illinoisfathers.org or call (309) 696-7930 for more information.

Information submitted by General Parker