We all enjoy the music of the famous R&B group Boyz II Men, but I think I enjoy OSU’s very own Boyz II Men group, Male Initiative even better. Even though their organization doesn’t do much singing, they are on a mission to change young men’s lived here on our campus. Male Initiative was founded Spring 2016 by Kahlil Martin, Kevin Hayes, Terrance Williams, and Jeylon Burkhalter. It all originated as an idea by Kevin Hayes, as he wanted to start a group called Project 180 with the same concepts as Male Initiative today, but however Kahlil Martin had just started implementing is life platform Shining The Light, which also focused on helping out minority males, and together they combined their ideas. Through both of them meeting Terrance and Jeylon whom are prevalent black leaders on our campus, through the African American Student Association, they all decided to form Male Initiative.
Recently, Male Initiative has been in the spotlight as they were the leaders of the March on Whitehurst in which the OSU African-American student body went forth to President Hargis office to demand change in regards to the recent blackface incidents, and also in creating as social media movement named #cantfakemelanin, to promote unity in the black community.
Through their actions, there has been improvement in the male community, and more minority males are gathering together to step up to the plate. “Representation among the black community has always been an after thought. We have to create an environment for our selves to feel represented”, stated Treasurer Jeylon Burkhalter. Not only are black males attending Male Initiatives meetings, but also other minority groups and non-minority groups have been seen to be in attendance.
“ Male Initiative has put out the word on campus, that it is ok to be a male leader, sometimes being a leader isn’t the most popular thing, but at this time in our society we cant afford to just sit back.” – Secretary, Terrance Williams
These four guys are defiantly changing these OSU “boyz” to be some great men that will go out and change the world. At this point this organization is far beyond making men to become leaders, but to provide them with the resources to change the male characteristics that have been lost over time. Watch out, because Male Initiative is starting a MOVEMENT.
Are you a male and are interested in being involved with Male Initiative? Follow them on Twitter and Instagram @OKSTATEMI for updates on their meetings and events!