Being confident in his decisions does not always translate into his career and body of work on screen and behind the lens being championed in mainstream media. “I don’t believe we [men of color] are highlighted, illuminated and encouraged as much as we could be, or deserve to be. That’s why we’re taking the responsibility to do so ourselves. We can’t depend on mainstream media to champion us when we know their priorities don’t always align with highlighting the positive things taking place every day in our communities.”
As innately powerful, creative, intelligent, and loving men (and women) we have to often times create our owns avenues to uplift each other. “our innate qualities are what sets us apart,” Rucker emphatically tells BE Modern Man. “There’s an innate charisma that is connected to men of color. We take things to the next level because we carry these qualities. We’re an asset because we bring an insight that no one has. We even carry a spiritual power that is really intangible. We have to be responsible and accountable as we carry these high leadership qualities that we’re born with.”
As a man with strong character, Rucker has co-founded the Black Gents of Hollywood which focuses on education, empowerment, entertainment through arts & sciences, service, and positive black male imagery. “My mission is to build up our young men and boys of color as assets and the kings that they are,” says Rucker. “We have to prepare them for the privilege of power and leadership that awaits them.” Organizations such as the Gents of Hollywood will prepare our young man today for the things they will face tomorrow. “We all need to see real people going through real things and still making something valuable happen.” “That is why BE Modern Man telling our stories is so important,” says Rucker. “We need exposure to the trials, tribulations, hopes, dreams, failures, and victories. The more people are exposed to these stories, the more apt they are to find something they can relate to and be inspired by.”
“A BE Modern Man is a true example of what a Black Gent is. A Renaissance man with classical style yet contemporary swag who respects traditional principals while breaking the mold or refining the picture. One who strives for excellence in all things at all times and believes in himself, his greatest possibilities and the possibilities of others. He uplifts his elders, women, children, peers and his community while respecting and paying forward the blessings that God and his ancestors has provided for him. The BE Modern Man can stand tall, smile brightly and enjoy life.”
Lamman Rucker is a true example of what the BE Modern Man integrative program is exposing to the world. He embodies the essence of strength, perseverance, leadership and humility. The BlackEnterprise.com team applauds him for setting an example, and standard for all young men of color. Your work does not go unnoticed.
It’s our normal to be extraordinary. Follow and join the BE Modern Man conversation at #BEModernMan @blackenterprise