On MLK Jr. Day, The Father’s Group in Bend addresses need for change in Central Oregon schools

Nonprofit calls for greater community engagement, more steps to curb bullying

(Update: Adding video, comments from The Father's Group President David Merritt)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Father's Group sheds light on needed change in Central Oregon's schools and community.

The Bend-based nonprofit organization was founded in 2018 by several black fathers who were concerned about the experiences their children had in school and in the community. It has been making strides to bring greater social awareness and solidarity in the Central Oregon community.

The group has recently been presenting a film series, with its most recent an airing of Selma on Saturday. The historical drama highlighted the civil rights accomplishments of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., only days before the federal holiday that bears his name.

"What we wanted to do was start generating conversations, tough conversations that we don’t have enough," The Father’s Group President David Merritt said Monday.

The group strives to strengthen community by leadership and education.

“Our focus is permanently on children, and that means betterment in all areas of life," Merritt said.

With their focus on student development, Merritt addressed the school arena and how it has affected many kids of color, including his daughter.

“She had a lot of problems in school, as do most of the black children that I know that go to school in Central Oregon, and that’s due to racism, being called the n-word, and bullying," Merritt said. "I mean, there are just so many incidents that don’t go on the record. A lot of teachers, a lot of people, are not prepared to handle those situations in school, so a lot of these times they go unnoticed.”

Because these experiences can turn into trauma, Merritt said it’s important for schools to take progressive steps against bullying.

The Father's Group has made various contributions in the community, including handing out 16 youth scholarships, and back-to-school drives.

“We have the Ujima program- the after-school program that is dedicated to teaching our youth and any youth that wish to learn about our culture, our history, from our perspective," Merritt said.

The nonprofit meets every first Thursday of each month and invites others to join their meetings.

They also offer volunteer opportunities for those that would like to get involved.

Merritt said one thing he's hopeful to see more of is greater community support and engagement.