My Seven Black Fathers

Jawando also wants to persuade society and those in charge to offer opportunities to Black people, so they do not end up with limited life choices. This is why he challenges readers with the question: “Why are Black boys worth so little when our potential is so enormous?” (ll. 116-117). Here, Jawando presents a hopeful image of a different world, where young Black people are allowed to live up to their potential.

Jawando also attempts to persuade the people who are trapped in a difficult environment that they can make it out. He offers the example of Black NBA players who became successful athletes. In this way he persuades the audience that sports are a way to overcome the limitations of your environment and make a better life for yourself. By following these positive role models, Black children will not feel tempted to follow other, negative role models, which might lead them into a criminal environment. 

Another example Jawando offers is himself. He is also the living proof of a person who managed to avoid the fate of the many Black people who were murdered. Although Jawando must live with the grief of losing many friends, he is now also able to help others. This is why another important intention of the text is to help as many people as possible to escape this system. By sharing these personal experiences, Jawando hopes to motivate the people who are trapped in disadvantaged environments to find their own way to break out.