On Saturday, June 13, 2026, the men of the Eta Nu Nu chapter of the illustrious Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., held their annual Fatherhood Luncheon from 12:30 pm-2:00 pm at First Church of God located at 3480 Refugee Road in Columbus, Ohio, where Bishop Dr. Timothy J. Clake, a member of Eta Nu Nu, presides as its senior pastor. Understanding that with next weekend being Father’s Day the men of Eta Nu Nu are likely to be busy with their families and loved ones. It is for this reason that the Fatherhood Luncheon is held the week prior. For the past five and a half years Eta Nu Nu’s slate of programming has been chock full of events and activities designed to improve the lives of Columbus area residents. For the men of Eta Nu Nu there is no rest for the weary. But on Saturday, June 13, 2026, nearly everyone (aside from the organizers of the luncheon, namely Antonio Caffey and Justin Gwinn) took a much-needed respite by partaking in a luncheon honoring all fathers in the chapter.
Unlike the day before when much of the morning as well as the early afternoon experienced overcast with the threat of rain, Saturday was sunny, hot and humid with no rain in sight. The weather could not have been more cooperative.
Following a few introductory remarks by Brother Caffey Brother Quincy Howard was called on to bless the meal consisting of fish, green beans, macaroni & cheese, and various beverages. Some of the men brought their sons and daughters along while others were in the company of grandsons and granddaughters. Eta Nu Nu member Causell Causey gave the keynote address that featured the importance of fatherhood with personal vignettes tossed in for the purpose of driving home several key points. Perhaps what struck those in attendance was the belief on the part of Causey that fathers need to be agile when it comes to parenting boys-vis-vis-girls. Causey argued that fathers need to recognize there is a benefit to understanding that certain parenting techniques that work for girls may not work for boys and vice versa. What Causey said made sense. Parents must be agile and flexible when guiding, mentoring and disciplining children. Given the number of nodding heads, many appeared to agree, especially the parents that raised both boys and girls.
Causey’s remarks felt less like a keynote and more like a counseling session and/or lecture on parenthood. The young parents in the room left that afternoon with more than one big takeaway from which they will eventually benefit greatly. The day ended on time with a closing prayer from the esteemed Bishop Dr. Timothy J. Clarke who stressed faith, prayer and the significance of taking care of oneself and those around them.
Judson L. Jeffries, PhD, MPH, is Professor of African American and African Studies at The Ohio State University.
