Sigmas host discussion about men

By: By Da'Janai Woods

Posted: 11/7/07

The men of the Beta Epsilon chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. posed the question "what is a real man?" when they hosted Man Talk, which took place last Thursday in the Scholars' Inn Clubhouse.

About 30 Langston University men shared their opinions about what a real man is, and the qualities that make up a man. Some argued that being a man is simply taking care of your business and responsibilities, and that if someone is lacking in any area they are not a complete man. Others disagreed with that point and said the definition of a man is different for different people, for example, being a Black man is different from being a White man.

Greg Thomas, advisor of the chapter, said that being a man is not an act, it is a reality. He said that if you have to act like a man then you are probably not a man.

"You can't act like a man, you have to be a man," Thomas said.

Andrew Jordan, the event coordinator, said he thinks there are guidelines for being a man. He said that there are not enough people or the right people teaching boys the guidelines for being a man.

Still, others had different ideas for what makes a man. One man said respect, experience and perseverance helps to define a man. Another man said that a man possesses leadership and before you lead you must follow.

Jimmy Hilliard, head track and field coach, was the guest speaker for the event. He said that you cannot define a man, but you can define the molding of a man. He also said that manhood is created when you apply lessons learned to your life.

"Things happen in life for a reason; accept those things and apply them," Hilliard said.

Jordan thinks the event was a success and says that the Sigmas will host the event again next semester.