Ms Jheri Worldwide
Staff Writer
In a compelling interview, Dr. Bell, a distinguished academic and social worker, shared profound insights on parenting, community, and navigating the intricate tapestry of modern society. His perspectives, deeply rooted in experience and a commitment to social justice, offer a guiding light for families and communities striving for positive change.
Dr. Bell, whose extensive teaching career spans institutions like several local school systems, Capella University, and NC State, is a staunch advocate for progressive educational approaches. A native of New Bern, Dr. Bell has called Raleigh home since 2005, dedicating his expertise to school counseling and social work. His work often intersects with the challenging realities faced by Black men and boys, a topic he discussed with a nuanced understanding of contemporary social dynamics. One of the most powerful threads throughout our conversation was Dr. Bell's unwavering conviction regarding the resilience of the Black community, particularly in the face of political rhetoric. He firmly debunked the "Black Fathers are all absent" narrative, stating, "We stick together. Yes. When it matters." He pointed to the consistent voting patterns of Black men and women in elections, demonstrating a collective commitment to progress despite internal disagreements.
Dr. Bell candidly addressed the persistent presence of racism and sexism, describing them as being "in the DNA of the country." While acknowledging that these societal ills may never be fully eradicated, he expressed hope for their weakening. He challenged the notion of passive acceptance, emphasizing the continuous need to "keep challenging and keep fighting."
A significant portion of our discussion centered on Dr. Bell's profound insights into parenting. He champions a philosophy of raising "potential" rather than merely "children." "Stop sending children to school... You have to send potential to school. You have to send that doctor to be, that teacher to be, that plumber to be, the electrician to be to school," he urged. This transformative mindset, he believes, shifts the entire atmosphere of education. He also stressed the importance of preparing children to become adults, advocating for a foundational approach that instills confidence and self-worth from a young age. He shared a poignant anecdote about guiding a young student out of hiding in a school bathroom, affirming his feelings rather than questioning his behavior, demonstrating the power of empathetic engagement.
Dr. Bell also critically examined the allocation of funds within the education system, particularly Title I and federal monies intended for disadvantaged children. He challenged parents and community members to look beyond individual incidents of behavior and instead scrutinize where these substantial funds are truly going. He asserted that while addressing individual injustices is crucial, the larger battle lies in holding institutions accountable for the equitable distribution of resources.
In a world where societal norms around language and professionalism seem to be shifting, Dr. Bell offered a thought-provoking perspective. While he personally adheres to a professional demeanor, he acknowledged the privilege that allows some public figures to deviate from traditional decorum without consequence. This, he noted, creates a challenging environment for parents trying to instill values in their children, as the distinction between acceptable and unacceptable behavior can become blurred.
Looking ahead, Dr. Bell is actively promoting his children's book titled "I Love You," inspired by his own upbringing where expressions of love were shown through actions rather than words. The book aims to encourage open verbal affirmations of love between parents and children. He is also crafting an ethnographic reflection on his experiences in juvenile justice, utilizing critical race theory and labeling theory to analyze the systemic challenges faced by marginalized youth.
Dr. Bell's unwavering optimism, even in the face of daunting societal challenges, is truly inspiring. His dedication to education, social justice, and empowering families shines through every word. His work serves as a powerful reminder that while the fight for a more equitable world is ongoing, progress is possible when individuals and communities commit to understanding, challenging, and actively shaping their realities. His insights provide a valuable roadmap for The Carolinian's readers as we collectively strive to build a more just and nurturing community.
