Credit: This article is based on a report by the Associated Press.
Every Monday evening, the basement of the Andrew and Walter Young Family YMCA in Atlanta transforms into a crucial gathering space for Black men, offering a sanctuary long overdue. Known as the Black Man Lab, this weekly meeting has, for nearly a decade, provided a “safe, sacred, and healing space” for Black men across metropolitan Atlanta. Each session draws over 100 participants who come together to pray, meditate, and discuss personal challenges and triumphs, all while learning from peers and elders.
“It’s almost a communion,” says Carttrell Coleman, a visual artist from South Fulton, Georgia, who has attended for seven years. “It’s an opportunity for us to share our voices and get resources. The networking is always a good thing. It’s a fellowship, of sorts.”
Recent discussions at the Black Man Lab have taken on new significance, especially after President Joe Biden suspended his reelection campaign, highlighting the possibility of a Black woman ascending to the presidency. Vice President Kamala Harris’s candidacy has refocused attention on Black men as a key demographic—one both Democrats and Republicans view as persuadable, yet often overlooked in political discourse.
“Black men are the target, and we hold the keys to the kingdom. This is our moment,” said Lance Robertson, executive director of the Black City Councilmen of Georgia, during a recent meeting. “The Black man has built America. Now it’s time for the Black man to save America.”
Traditionally one of the most reliable Democratic demographics, Black male voters are now being actively courted by both major parties, especially those under 40. The turnout among Black men and their continued support for Democratic candidates could be decisive in the upcoming November elections.
Bishop Reginald Jackson, who oversees 534 African Methodist Episcopal churches in Georgia, observed a shift in sentiment among Black men. “Early on, a lot of Black men viewed this election with skepticism and dread,” he said. “But since the change in the Democratic ticket, there has been a turnaround. I think they feel they have something they can support now.”
The Black Man Lab draws men from all walks of life, with participants ranging in age from 8 to 86. Fathers, grandfathers, and grandsons share their unique experiences as Black men in America, connecting generational challenges through common struggles.
While Black voters have historically prioritized civil rights and economic mobility, younger Black men are increasingly focused on wealth creation, entrepreneurship, police reform, and workplace anti-discrimination policies. “The Black church, in a lot of respects, has been a turnoff for the Black man, and we’re only now working to address the need and correct it,” Jackson noted.
Recognizing the importance of Black male voters, the Harris campaign has been particularly active in engaging this demographic, with a focus on economic opportunity and health. Democratic strategist Antjuan Seawright, who leads the Democratic National Committee’s “Chop It Up” town halls for Black men, emphasized that Black men “aren’t monolithic” and should not be assumed to care only about criminal justice reform.
Republicans are also seeking to connect with Black men by addressing their frustrations with the political system. Black Republican leaders have been hosting events aimed at drawing Black men into their fold, pointing to President Trump’s efforts to reach out to Black voters.
“Black men have been taken for granted by the Democratic Party for years, but President Trump’s message is resonating at historic levels because he is doing the work,” said Janiyah Thomas, Black media director for the Trump campaign.
For many at the Black Man Lab, the 2024 presidential race is an opportunity to ensure their voices are heard at the highest levels of government. Damon Bod, an exterior house technician from Atlanta, credits the Black Man Lab with saving his life after losing his entire immediate family to violence. He plans to support Harris, encouraged by the belief that she will advocate for Black men’s interests.
“I’ve been looking at it, and hopefully, she’ll do a bit of good,” Bod said. “My brothers have said she will, people who know me. But only God knows.”
Photo Credit: AP Photo/Stephanie Scarbrough
