By staff
For Kenneth Whisenton, fatherhood is more than a role—it is a divine assignment shaped by love, leadership, and legacy. As a councilman, a man of faith, and a son raised by a stepfather who was both a Marine and a Pastor, Kenneth’s journey is deeply rooted in discipline, service, and compassion. His approach to being a father is guided by spiritual conviction and an unwavering commitment to presence, purpose, and community upliftment. Through his leadership in Gary, Indiana, and his personal walk as a husband and father, Kenneth exemplifies what it means to not only hold the title of “father,” but to honor the responsibility with grace and intention.
What does fatherhood mean to you—not just the title, but the responsibility and the legacy?
Fatherhood, to me, is a sacred calling rooted in stewardship, not just biology. I was raised by my stepfather—a Marine and Pastor—who taught me discipline, duty, love of country and community, and most importantly, how to lead with love and strength under God. Fatherhood means carrying forward those timeless values and being intentional about passing down faith, character, and legacy to the next generation.
How do you support and uplift other Black fathers in your community?
As a councilman in Gary, I see firsthand the struggles and sacrifices Black fathers make to support their families, often under limited circumstances. I advocate strongly for workforce development, job creation, and access to social services—because when fathers have opportunities, entire families thrive. Whether it’s supporting ordinances that provide food, jobs, or sustainable housing, I stand firmly behind efforts that uplift and empower Black fathers in our community.
What does “being present” look like for you as a father?
Being present means being intentional with my time and priorities, aligning them with what God has called me to do—starting with showing up for my wife and son. It’s making sure my son knows that no meeting or responsibility comes before him. I’ve canceled and rescheduled countless appointments just to make sure I’m there for his needs, and that’s a decision I’ll always stand by.
How do you stay mentally and emotionally well while being a father, partner, and provider?
I stay grounded through my faith, my wife, and therapy. Leaning on my church family and seeking wisdom from elders gives me clarity and spiritual balance. My wife provides unwavering support and stability, and therapy gives me a space to process emotions in a healthy, constructive way—so I can be fully present and grateful in every moment.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned from your own father or father figure that you’re now passing on?
One of the most powerful lessons I learned from my father is that you don’t seek praise for doing your duty. Fatherhood is a calling, not a performance. God blesses us with the gift of family, and it’s our responsibility to steward that gift with love, commitment, and humility—without expecting applause.
What do you find most fulfilling about being a father?
The most fulfilling part of being a father is witnessing the generational love within my family—like recently watching my son interact with my mother. The joy on both of their faces moved my spirit. It’s a powerful reminder of the beauty in legacy and the purity of love passed down through generations.
Can you describe the moment you first became a father and what emotions you experienced?
Becoming a father was a flood of emotions—pride, relief, and overwhelming joy. I was in awe of my wife; she was truly Super Woman in how she carried and delivered our son. The moment I held him, everything else faded—it felt like it was just the three of us and the Lord in the room. It was sacred, powerful, and beyond anything I could have imagined.
Are there any myths or stereotypes about Black fatherhood that you’re working to dismantle through how you show up?
Yes—every single day. The myth that Black fathers are absent or indifferent is something I challenge through my presence, my work, and my voice. I show up not just for my own family, but as a visible example that Black fatherhood is strong, consistent, loving, and deeply invested. We are here. We care. We lead.
If you only could say one thing to your child/children knowing that you would never see them again, what would that be?
That’s simple: Know that God loves you—truly, deeply, and unconditionally. Even if I’m no longer here, you are never alone. You are loved beyond measure, and that love will carry you through anything.
How do you teach your children about identity, pride, and navigating the world as a Black child?
I am teaching my child about identity and pride by spotlighting our history—not just the pain of slavery, but the power in knowing we helped build this country. Being Black means inheriting a legacy of grit, faith, resilience, and greatness. I want my child to embrace that truth and live by these words: Walk tall, speak truth, love hard, and be reverent.
