Over the years, many African parents like me have watched our children make the bold decision to serve in the United States military. Their choice is often driven by courage, ambition, and a deep desire to contribute meaningfully to their adopted country. Yet, while they wear the uniform with pride and defend the freedoms we all enjoy, the experiences of their families—especially African families—have remained largely unrecognized, unsupported, and without a unified voice.

For too long, there has been no central meeting point where African parents of U.S. military service members can gather, share their journeys, and draw strength from one another. We have celebrated quietly in our homes, shed tears in private moments, and carried both pride and worry in silence. Our stories, sacrifices, and the unique challenges we face as immigrant families have often gone untold. This reality left a gap that needed to be filled—one that could bring us together as a community and allow us to stand tall alongside our children.

That is why I founded AAMP — African American Military Parents. This initiative was born out of the desire to create a hub that connects, educates, empowers, and appreciates both the families and the brave young people who serve. AAMP is not just a name; it is a movement, a gathering place, and a symbol of unity for African parents across America and beyond.

At its core, AAMP is about connection. Families who once felt isolated now have a place to meet others who understand their journey. Whether through shared experiences, cultural exchanges, or emotional support, AAMP offers a sense of belonging. Parents can share their stories of resilience, faith, and hope while also finding encouragement from others who have walked the same path.

AAMP is also about education. Many parents struggle to fully understand the military lifestyle, benefits, challenges, and opportunities their children encounter. By providing resources, guidance, and information, AAMP equips families with knowledge that helps them support their loved ones more effectively. From navigating deployments to understanding veterans’ affairs, our goal is to ensure no parent feels left behind or uninformed.

Furthermore, AAMP seeks to empower. Our community is filled with wisdom, strength, and talent. By organizing programs, discussions, and mentorship opportunities, we not only uplift families but also prepare them to positively influence the lives of service members and the broader community. Empowerment means giving parents the tools and confidence to stand proudly, advocate for their children, and contribute meaningfully to society.

Most importantly, AAMP is about appreciation. We celebrate the courage of our children who put their lives on the line for a greater cause, and we recognize the parents who nurtured them. Appreciation means telling their stories, honoring their sacrifices, and creating a legacy of pride for generations to come.

With AAMP, no parent or service member will feel unseen. Together, we can build a strong network that uplifts families, strengthens communities, and honors the brave. This is more than an idea—it is a mission, and it begins with us.

AAMP is committed to:

1. Locating African-American Military Families Across the U.S. and Diaspora

One of the primary goals of AAMP is to identify and connect African-American military families who are scattered across the United States and the diaspora. Too often, these families remain isolated without a central hub to relate to others who share similar experiences. By locating and bringing them together, AAMP builds a sense of unity and belonging that transcends geography. This effort creates opportunities for shared learning, mutual encouragement, and cultural exchange. It also provides a structured community where families can find support in times of need and celebration in moments of achievement. AAMP’s commitment to locating these families is not just about mapping where they are, but about forging connections that empower parents, service members, and loved ones to recognize that they are part of a greater story—a collective narrative of strength, sacrifice, and pride in service.

2. Informing Them of Their Rights, Benefits, and Opportunities

Navigating the military system can be challenging, especially for immigrant families who may not always be familiar with the resources available to them. AAMP is dedicated to ensuring that African-American military families are fully informed about their rights, benefits, and opportunities. From understanding healthcare access to exploring housing benefits, scholarships, or retirement options, AAMP acts as a bridge between families and vital information. This knowledge helps families make the most of the sacrifices made by their loved ones in service. It prevents them from being left in the dark and ensures they can claim what they rightfully deserve. AAMP also highlights opportunities for growth, such as career advancement, educational programs, and veteran support services, giving families the confidence to take advantage of these resources. By informing families, we empower them to thrive, not just survive, within the military system and beyond.

3. Educating About Military Life and Transitions

Military life is unique, and for many African parents, it presents a new world that may feel overwhelming at first. AAMP provides education that helps families understand what to expect at different stages—from enlistment, boot camp, and active duty to deployment and eventual transitions out of service. This education is practical and holistic, covering emotional, financial, and social aspects of military life. Parents and families learn how to prepare for challenges such as long separations, relocation, or re-adjustment after service. More importantly, AAMP ensures that families are guided through transitions, whether that means navigating veteran benefits, adapting to civilian life, or exploring post-military careers. By offering this education, AAMP gives families the confidence to support their loved ones with understanding and compassion. In doing so, we bridge the gap between cultural expectations and the realities of military service.

4. Empowering Families with Tools and Support Networks

At AAMP, empowerment is at the heart of our mission. We believe that when families are equipped with the right tools and networks, they are better positioned to support their loved ones in service while thriving themselves. Empowerment comes through training, mentorship, workshops, and peer-to-peer networks that allow families to share experiences and learn from one another. It also means providing resources that strengthen emotional resilience, financial literacy, and community engagement. Through empowerment, families become advocates not only for their children in uniform but also for the larger African-American military community. The strength of a soldier lies partly in the support of their family, and AAMP ensures that this foundation is unshakable. With tools and support systems in place, families are no longer passive observers of military life but active participants in shaping a stronger, more informed, and united community.

5. Appreciating Both Families and Service Members

AAMP believes that appreciation is more than just words—it is action, recognition, and honor. Our service members sacrifice daily, often putting themselves in harm’s way for a cause greater than themselves. Their courage deserves acknowledgment, but so does the silent strength of families who stand behind them. AAMP is committed to celebrating both. We do this by creating platforms that tell their stories, organizing events that honor their contributions, and developing initiatives that highlight their sacrifices. Appreciation means ensuring that families know their role is not invisible and that their resilience matters. It also involves building legacies—passing down stories of courage and sacrifice to inspire future generations. At AAMP, we recognize that every salute, every deployment, and every homecoming is not just about the soldier but about the family who gave their blessing and bore the weight of service alongside them.

6. Encouraging Recruitment/Enlistment into U.S. Military Careers

Finally, AAMP is committed to encouraging recruitment and enlistment into U.S. military careers, particularly among African-American youth. By highlighting success stories, providing mentorship, and breaking down misconceptions, we open doors for the next generation to see military service as a path to honor, stability, and growth. For many young people, the military offers access to education, career training, leadership development, and lifelong benefits that can transform their futures. Through our efforts, we aim to inspire youth to see service not as a burden but as an opportunity to serve their country, gain valuable skills, and uplift their communities. AAMP ensures that families also understand the value of this career path, enabling them to support their children’s decisions wholeheartedly. By promoting recruitment, we are building not just soldiers but leaders, role models, and a proud legacy of African contribution to U.S. military excellence.