Da’ Lighthouse Outreach Tackles the Difficult Issue of Black Love, Celebrates 21st Anniversary

Feb. 17, 2009 - PRLog -- Los Angeles, CA, - Da’ Lighthouse Outreach presented its annual Valentine’s Day program entitled “Black Love” on February 13th. This event was held at Greenway Court Theater. Black Love is an exploration of relationships, gender, and culture, which aims to bring awareness to the young black community. Research has found that dysfunction in relationships between black males and females start at a very young age. The purpose of Black Love is to provide a space where discussion and forums will teach young students to dispel negative media representations and stereotypes surrounding black relationships. In doing this, it will reaffirm the positive aspects of black relationships. This program challenges young people to love themselves first and to be healthy contributors in a relationship as well. Students attended from various high schools including; Fairfax High School, Westchester High School, Carson High School, Jordan High School, Hollywood High School, and Hamilton High School. Son of slain Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba, Guy-Patrice Lumumba, was a special guest speaker at the event. He encouraged students to pursue their education and told them about his experiences growing up in the democratic Republic of Congo and abroad. Miss Liberia International, Telena Cassell, Liberian radio personality, Fred Smith, and celebrity personal trainer, Mike T, made special appearances. The event was co-sponsored by NuBorn Beverages. The event was moderated by student members of Da' Lighthouse Outreach. Students presented Guy-Patrice Lumumba with scholarship money for the students of the D.R. of Congo.

Da’ Lighthouse Outreach, celebrating its 21st anniversary as a non-profit organization this year, started as a support group for African American males who, in particular, face societal pressure to not express themselves and have “fallen through the cracks of the system.” This program would focus on self-awareness, conflict resolution, and empowerment and act as a safe arena for young men to express their feelings about issues at school, home, the workplace, and their communities. Da’ Lighthouse Outreach also teaches students to lead healthy lifestyles through fitness and nutrition.

In 1999, founder Jean Simmons allowed females to be a part of group sessions to deal with relationship issues and gender dynamics. This ushered in counseling for both sexes which grew into its own female group in 2006.

The goal of Da’ Lighthouse Outeach is to teach young people leadership through self-awareness, coping skills, and culture from an international perspective. Many aspects of group sessions are African inspired to teach students about their roots. Once a small group of students, Da’ Lighthouse has expanded to include youth from several Los Angeles School district high schools, charter schools, and students schooled from home.


CONTACT: David Bodger
Akofena PR
David.bodger@akofenapr.com

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