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- Date change rule:
- Every March 29
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- 🤝
Payday It Forward champions kindness and support for young Black men every March 29. This day addresses systemic racism, encouraging everyone to treat young Black men with dignity and respect. Commit to an act of kindness, amplify positive narratives, and support initiatives that empower Black youth.
Want to sponsor Payday It Forward? Learn how
Expected Payday It Forward Deals
For Payday It Forward, the focus shifts from commercial deals to impactful support and fundraising for organizations dedicated to empowering young Black men. Nonprofits like the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, The Urban League, and local community centers often host events or campaigns. Many corporations, such as Target and Nike, may offer donation-matching programs or highlight their ongoing diversity and inclusion initiatives. Look for opportunities to contribute to mentorship programs or educational scholarships. We will update this page with confirmed live opportunities as March 29 approaches.
Platform Guide for Payday It Forward
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #PaydayItForward. Share stories of positive interactions and community support for young Black men.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #PaydayItForward. Join conversations about racial justice and share resources for youth empowerment.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #PaydayItForward. Share local events or initiatives supporting young Black men in your community.
Payday It Forward Hero
Martin Luther King Jr.
History of Payday It Forward
Payday It Forward is observed across the world, but particularly in the U.S., where the racism towards young black boys and black men has left them feeling demoralized and dispirited. PayDay it Forward is named after a young black boy, who was killed by the police in an act of police aggression that is yet to be justified. Paylor James Daniels, nicknamed ‘PayDay’ by his friends, had just turned 18 when he was murdered. And his mother Paula Long dedicated this day to all young black boys and teenagers in his memory.
Three men were charged with first-degree manslaughter for PayDay’s murder, but while justice has been served, there are hundreds of young black boys, teenagers, and men who are being targeted for racial violence. Paula Long formed the PayDay Foundation and instituted the PayDay It Forward day to encourage people to get to know the young black boys and men in their neighborhood and offer them support. Long asks people to stop overlooking teenage black boys, and look past their hoodies.
She asks adults to try and understand that like other people, black teenagers have preferences in clothing, and walk in a certain way based on what they think is cool, and not because they’re trying to be aggressive. This day is also an opportunity for people to check in on their neighborhood kids and support them through any difficulties they might be having. Long encourages people to break through their stereotypes so they can see young black boys for who they are.
Payday It Forward timeline
Racism against young black children is strong, and they are shown as bait for alligators.
More and more videos appear where black people and men, in particular, are unfairly targeted for what is presented as aggressive behavior.
P.J Daniels, known as PayDay to his friends, is killed when he is pushed out of a moving vehicle.
Paula Long, P.J Daniels' mother institutes a foundation in her son's honor to support and encourage young black boys and men.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Payday It Forward
Local businesses can honor Payday It Forward by creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for young Black men. Consider sponsoring local mentorship programs or offering internships specifically designed to provide career exposure and development. Restaurants or cafes could offer a ‘pay it forward’ option where customers can purchase a meal for someone in need, directed towards local youth organizations. Highlight your commitment to diversity and inclusion through your social media channels and in-store signage.
Payday It Forward FAQs
When is Payday It Forward?
In 2027, Payday It Forward falls on Monday, March 29. It’s an important opportunity to reflect on and act for racial justice and dignity.
How does racial bias affect young Black men?
The effects of racial bias on young Black men are far-reaching, often leading to mental health challenges, reduced opportunities, and feelings of marginalization. Payday It Forward aims to counteract these negative experiences with deliberate acts of kindness and respect.
How many organizations support young Black men?
The ecosystem of support for young Black men is robust, with an estimated several hundred non-profits and community-based organizations actively working to provide resources, foster leadership, and promote positive outcomes for this demographic.
What is the purpose of Payday It Forward?
The core purpose of Payday It Forward is to foster a culture of empathy and support for young Black men. It calls on individuals to go out of their way to affirm their humanity and challenge prejudiced perceptions.
How to Observe Payday It Forward
Use the hashtag
#Remember2PayDay is used on social media to show how people are expressing their support. Show your support for young black boys through this hashtag.
Reach out to your black neighbors
Reach out to the black boys in your neighborhood, just to check in on them. Support them and express your willingness to help if they ever need anything.
Host a sensitization seminar
Work with your community leaders to organize a seminar around the mistreatment of black teenagers. Make sure you get the teenagers in your community to speak.
5 Facts About Stereotyping Of Black Boys
They are seen as threats
Black boys are often seen as threats to public safety for no reason, especially if they happen to be tall.
They are believed to be emotionless
A lot of people like to believe that young black boys have no emotions and that they never smile or feel anything.
They’re perceived as adults
Black boys are treated like adults when they make a mistake, with adult consequences instead of regular ones.
Black boys are seen as uncultured
Black boys and teenagers are judged on what they wear, and often dismissed as being uncouth or crude.
They’re considered to be disrespectful
In schools, black boys and teenagers are most likely to be reprimanded for disrespect when teachers misinterpret their silence or expressions.
Why Payday It Forward is Important
We think racism is bad
We hate that young children are suffering because of racist stereotyping. We want to do everything we can to help and show our support.
We want to break the stereotype
We don't understand where stereotypes even come from. We want to help people break the barrier of the stereotype and see young black boys for who they are.
We want to support black boys
We want to help young black boys feel seen and heard. We want to create a safe space where they can be themselves.
Social Media Tips for Payday It Forward
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