Everyday Black Girl Dads Who Make Fatherhood Look Good

A girl with a present and affirming Black dad grows and glows up differently. She knows what love sounds like. She recognizes what it looks like when a man respects her boundaries. She isn’t easily swayed by surface-level attention, because she’s been seen deeply all her life. Her father has already told her that she is smart, powerful, and worthy, and because of that, she walks into rooms with her head held high. She may kiss a few frogs, but it’s not because she doesn’t know what a Prince looks like and how he should show up, because she has witnessed a king in action.

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Personally, I have never discounted the value of Black men because I always been a daddy’s girl. My father, Ace Bigelow, gave me that solid foundation. Even as a 47-year-old woman, my daddy’s love is firm, honest, and deeply affirming. He saw me—the real me—even before I knew who I was becoming. He didn’t just speak life into me, he demanded I honor the power within myself. He taught me not to be afraid of taking up space and to always walk in truth, even when it’s hard. And when life tried to break me and I encountered storms, he reminded me that I come from strength—that I am strength.

Then there was my stepfather, Babe, who walked into my life like a gentle wind and stayed like a rooted tree. His love was subtle but steady, his presence consistent. He never tried to replace my father—he simply added to what had already been planted. Babe taught me the power of showing up, the beauty of kindness, and how real men lead with humility. When I think about the kind of love that nurtures, I think of him.

Black Dads

I would be remiss not to mention the father of my children. While we don’t share friendship or closeness, I have never denied the instrumental role he played in shaping our children into the amazing young adults they are becoming. He was present. He was active. And he was determined to raise our children with discipline, love, and high standards. He wasn’t perfect, and honestly, no parents are, but I must acknowledge the fact that he gave fatherhood his best efforts even when they didn’t translate in the most positive ways. Our differences as co-parents never altered his commitment to them, and that, in itself, is a reflection of manhood and responsibility that deserves acknowledgment. My children are smart, strong, and deeply aware of their value, and much of that comes from the example and guidance of their father. And for that, I give respect where it’s due.

Here are a few Black girl dads who remind us of the beauty and responsibility of fathering Black girls.

Marques

Marques is in full girl dad mode—and we love to see it. The way he looks at his baby girl says it all: obsessed, in awe, and already wrapped around her tiny fingers.New fatherhood looks good on him. It’s soft. It’s present. It’s powerful. Black dads like Marques are rewriting the narrative, leading with love from day one.

Dink

There is nothing more beautiful than watching this influencer embracing the beautiful mess of parenting—spinning, laughing, dancing, playing dress-up, and even creating mischief with his daughters. Every moment is unfiltered joy and love, it’s clear that Dink knows the secret to true connection is just letting go and being present.This isn’t about picture-perfect parenting—it’s about presence. It’s the kind of playful energy that lets daughters see their father as more than a provider or protector. He is obviously a friend, a partner in silliness, and a source of delight. These candid moments are more than just fun—they’re the threads that knit a father-daughter bond that lasts a lifetime.

Trevor Saint

Watching Trevor love on his daughter with such ease, joy, and presence is a reminder that soft Black men exist—and they are raising powerful Black girls. In a world that often questions their ability or ignores their presence, Black fathers like Trevor are redefining what parenting looks like. He’s not just showing up—he’s leading with tenderness, creating joy, and building an unshakable foundation of love and safety.

Steven York

This father’s love for his daughter Bianca is unwavering, powerful, and deeply present. As the father of a child living with special needs, Steve’s journey has been one of fierce advocacy, quiet sacrifices, and unconditional love. Where others may have seen limitations, Steve saw brilliance in Bianca’s smile, her spirit, and her ability to inspire those around her.

Lenare Palmer

A proud dad to two beautiful young ladies, this formerly incarcerated father frequently speaks about the importance of fatherhood, especially how raising his daughters transformed him emotionally and spiritually.

Everyday Dads Who Make Fatherhood Look Good  was originally published on hellobeautiful.com