David Banner, a name synonymous with success, creativity, and resilience, has recently made a statement that shook up many conversations: at 50 years old, he’s ready to get married, settle down, and have children. What struck me about his announcement wasn’t just the decision itself but the wave of negativity that followed from certain corners, particularly from some Black women who seemed to view his desire as opportunistic or hypocritical.
Let’s be clear from the start—David Banner’s decision to want a family at this stage in his life is a noble and honorable undertaking. He didn’t say he wanted to live a life of excess, indulge in a harem, or follow some unconventional path; he wants to start a family, to leave behind a legacy, something any responsible and successful man should aspire to. Yet, somehow, this idea has been met with unwarranted hostility. Let’s dive deeper and examine the underlying issues that have fueled this response.
A Clean Slate and a Successful Path
Firstly, David Banner is a man who has maintained a pristine image in an industry often marred by scandal and controversy. He hasn’t been in and out of jail, hasn’t indulged in toxic behaviors, nor has he displayed the kind of low vibrational tendencies that often tarnish the reputations of celebrities. This man has worked hard, stayed focused, and carved out an illustrious career in multiple fields. So, when someone of his caliber expresses a genuine desire to build a family, why does it spark so much ire?
The Backlash and the Bitterness
Many of the negative comments stemmed from women who felt that Banner was only now interested in settling down because he was older, implying that he was merely looking for someone to take care of him in his later years. Others accused him of wanting to “run around” and have his fun, only to “use” a younger woman for childbearing now that he’s ready. This anger stems from a place of hurt and resentment, but is it really justified?
The truth is, David Banner is exercising his right, as any man should, to make choices that align with his life goals. He’s not seeking validation from society nor asking for permission to live his life. As a successful Black man who has lived clean, stayed focused, and built his empire, what’s wrong with his desire to now share his life with a woman and build a family?
The Truth About Biology and Relationships
Let’s address a biological fact: men can father children at any age as long as they remain healthy, whereas women have a limited reproductive window. This isn’t an insult or an attempt to diminish anyone’s worth—it’s simply a fact of nature. Therefore, if a 50-year-old man like Banner wishes to find a woman of childbearing age to start a family, he’s not doing anything wrong or unnatural. He’s acting within his rights, and quite frankly, many cultures around the world embrace this dynamic without issue. In many African cultures, older men marrying younger women is not only common but celebrated as it strengthens family structures and ensures the continuation of bloodlines.
Facing the Stereotypes and Breaking the Narrative
The response from some of these women reveals a deeper issue—an unspoken fear that challenges their own choices. When faced with a man who has it all, who doesn’t fit the “deadbeat” narrative often imposed upon Black men, it forces a reckoning. It requires them to confront the reality that they may have missed out on someone who embodies all the qualities they claim to desire in a partner. Yet instead of celebrating a Black man’s decision to uplift his community through family, they lash out. Why?
Perhaps it’s because society has conditioned them to believe that Black men aren’t capable of such aspirations, that they’re unworthy of being heads of households or creators of legacies. But here’s the truth: there are countless Black men who, like David Banner, want to build, protect, and elevate their families. And those men deserve to be acknowledged, respected, and supported.
10 Stereotypes Often Used to Put Down Black Men
- “Black men are irresponsible fathers.” Not every Black man abandons his children; many are deeply committed to their families.
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“Black men are unfaithful.” There are countless Black men who value monogamy, loyalty, and building a life with one partner.
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“Black men are only after money or material possessions.” Many Black men are driven by purpose, legacy, and the desire to contribute positively to their communities.
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“Black men are lazy and unmotivated.” The accomplishments of Black men in every field, from entrepreneurship to academia, shatter this stereotype.
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“Black men don’t respect women.” Respect and upliftment of Black women have been core values for many men who stand as allies, partners, and protectors.
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“Black men are all about drama and conflict.” Many Black men lead peaceful lives, avoiding unnecessary altercations and striving for harmony.
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“Black men don’t care about education or self-improvement.” The growing number of Black men excelling in higher education and personal development speaks volumes against this myth.
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“Black men are only interested in casual relationships.” There are many who genuinely seek lifelong partnerships and family-building.
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“Black men lack ambition.” The rise of Black entrepreneurs, leaders, and creatives across industries proves otherwise.
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“Black men don’t want to marry or commit.” As seen with David Banner, many Black men do aspire to marriage and long-term commitment; they simply want to do it on their terms.
A Word to the Wise: The Importance of Embracing Unity and Legacy
Instead of tearing down a Black man for making a conscious, responsible choice, it’s time we support and uplift men like David Banner. His decision to build a family at this stage in his life should be celebrated, not scorned. It challenges the narrative that Black men are incapable of leading, nurturing, and contributing positively to their communities.
If we, as a people, cannot acknowledge and respect the desire for unity, family, and legacy, then how do we expect to move forward as a community? The Black family is the bedrock of our strength, and it’s time we honor those who seek to fortify it. So to my brother David Banner, I say this: more power to you, and may your journey toward building a beautiful family be blessed and fruitful.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Positive Black Manhood
As a Black man who has seen the highs and lows, who has walked the path of wisdom and growth, I understand the importance of family, legacy, and leaving something behind that speaks to who we are as a people. It’s time we dismantle the negative stereotypes and encourage our brothers to pursue their dreams of building strong, united families. And to the Black women who support us in this journey, we thank you.
