5 Questions
Dr. Kianga Thomas
The Importance of Males of Color Sharing Their Stories of Challenges and Victories
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Q1: Forest Of The Rain Productions: Dr. Thomas, you are one of six editors working on the upcoming Gumbo for the Soul: Males of Color Share Their Stories, Meditations, Affirmations, and Inspirations why did you want to work on this project and who will benefit from the work? Dr. Thomas: I wanted to work on this project for three reasons: 1. As an African American Male in the United States, it is important that I help cultivate the narrative of the successful Black Man in America. There are too many negative stories and stereotypes that continue to plague our community and I want to ensure that we display inspirational stories on success so that it will impact generations to come; 2. My story is one that consists of a lot of trials and tribulations and as a result, I have overcome many obstacles be in my current situation. Through a lot of prayers, influential people around me, and a great attitude, I have overcome tremendous odds and I want to help others share those stories; 3. Finally, I am a big fan of Dr. Donna Ford!!! She is a tremendous role model and very inspirational person. And when the call came out to be an editor, I was honored to be asked by such an incredible scholar and humanitarian (Donna Ford) to be part of this project… without hesitation. 
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Q2: Forest Of The Rain Productions: There are many Males of Color with a story to share of how they beat the odds. However, they are not scholars and experts in writing; does this book offer a space for their voice?
Dr. Thomas: Yes, telling your story should carry your voice! As long as authors stay within the boundaries/guidelines, then each author should be fine. However, it is imperative that authors understand that this not a writing opportunity to lash out, use vulgar language, and highlight unpleasant behaviors or experiences. Rather, it is an opportunity to highlight a positive roadmap for success that could possibly benefit a young Brother who may be in a similar situation. Q3: Forest Of The Rain Productions: Why are the stories of Males of Color worth reading about? Have we not heard all there is to say?
Dr. Thomas: We (society) need to hear stories of success from Males of Color. Too many times we hear negative, downtrodden and stories of subjugated (prison) situations towards Males of Color. The news and social media consistently place value on the negative outcomes of Males of Color over success stories and it has become quite disheartening, to say the least. Moreover, NO!!! We have not heard all there is to say about stories of success from Males of Color. Personally, society has dictated that they do not want to hear of such stories, so it is the duty of this book to be a beacon of light that will illustrate the successes of Males of Color. Q4: Forest Of The Rain Productions: Dr. Thomas, you said telling our stories of success, as men of color have the capacity to empower, enlighten, and inspire many.
Dr. Thomas: Yes, this book can serve as a “Blueprint” for many to follow. Often times, our youth tend to find solace in areas, ideas, and people that will lead them down a road to self-destruction. I believe that the stories we capture will help empower, enlighten, and inspire many who have lost hope, so no other way, and who may need guidance or encouragement to succeed. |
Q5: Forest Of The Rain Productions: Dr. Thomas, why do these stories in this book have the potential to establish an unprecedented history of building resiliency and affirming our rich legacy for generations to come?
Dr. Thomas: Building resilient behavior(s) is vitally important for anyone who has been disenfranchised oppressed, and who have no sense of direction. Resiliency is about overcoming odds, persevering, and being a good critical thinker. This book has the potential to provide stories from those who have persevered through turbulent times, figured out ways to navigate life’s shortcomings, and figured out how life works! Through these stories, our rich legacy can be passed down through generations, very similar to how the Griots passed down stories in Africa.
Dr. Thomas: Building resilient behavior(s) is vitally important for anyone who has been disenfranchised oppressed, and who have no sense of direction. Resiliency is about overcoming odds, persevering, and being a good critical thinker. This book has the potential to provide stories from those who have persevered through turbulent times, figured out ways to navigate life’s shortcomings, and figured out how life works! Through these stories, our rich legacy can be passed down through generations, very similar to how the Griots passed down stories in Africa.