Father of the Year, James Jones.

Back in the day when parents still took their role in the family seriously, and having a father in the home was not seen as a noteworthy accomplishment, the idea of a black father going into warrior mode (when needed) to protect his children was seen as a necessary part of his job description. Not so today. Today's expectations have plummeted so far within society in general and black folk in particular, that most people gladly congratulate the black father for just showing up. Excuses abound. And note to the media-watching President Obama kiss his daughters a couple of times a year doesn't even begin to balance out the constant barrage of stories portraying the black father as a deadbeat, abuser or flat out loser. However, this morning I saw the story of a black father who, while wrong in his approach, got caught doing something right.

They were poking me with pencils, calling me outside my name and condoms were being thrown on the bus.  Chatari Jones

On September 2, James Jones learned from his precious 12 year old daughter, Chatari, that she had been bullied on the school bus by several boys. Chatari has cerebal palsy and she has already missed a year of school due to health concerns. Mr. Jones was understandably upset and he decided to accompany his daughter on the bus the following day to speak to the driver. While waiting at the bus stop the next day to speak to the driver, Mr. Jones became furious  when he saw the chaos on the bus as it pulled up twenty minutes late.. Mr. Jones stormed onto the bus in warrior mode and directed a profanity laced tirade toward his daughter's tormenters. He was later arrested and charged with disorderly conduct which might bring jail time.
Mr. Jones and Chatari appeared on this morning's Today Show along with his wife, Deborah, and the family attorney, Natalie Jackson.
Father and daughter both spoke through tears as they recounted the pain this situation has caused their family. Mr. Jones said it best,  

I am just an average dad protecting his daughter and that's it.  James Jones

Chatari had to be hospitalized after the bus incident and hasn't returned to school since. As a parent, I don't condone Mr. Jones' actions, but as a parent, I understand.  Every child deserves a parent that is willing to go to war literally and figuratively for their protection. Everyone (including Mr. Jones) knows that the situation should have been handled through the proper bureaucratic channels. But given the circumstances, and the complete lack of order on the bus, Mr. Jones' misguided approach inspires more admiration than condemnation from this blogger.
See the video here.