From a single campus vision to a national brotherhood rooted in purpose, consciousness, and service.
United AfriKan American Men, Inc. (UAAM) was born out of a critical need to redefine, uplift, and empower Black men within higher education and the broader community. During the early 1990s, many Black male students faced academic, social, and cultural challenges that were not being adequately addressed. UAAM emerged as a response—rooted in purpose, consciousness, and collective responsibility.
In the spring of 1993, while attending Grambling State University in Grambling, Louisiana, LaMarr D. Shields envisioned an organization that would confront negative stereotypes surrounding Black men while fostering scholarship, leadership, and unity.
This vision was grounded in the belief that educated Black men have a responsibility to uplift their communities and guide younger generations. UAAM was designed to be Afrikan-centered, purpose-driven, and focused on tangible impact—both on campus and beyond.
On February 18, 1993, United AfriKan American Men, Inc. was officially founded alongside a group of like-minded brothers who shared a commitment to service, scholarship, and cultural awareness.
From its earliest days, UAAM attracted Black men who were seeking structure, accountability, and a deeper connection to their identity and responsibilities.
Later in 1993, UAAM introduced one of its most impactful initiatives: BaM (Becoming a Man). This program was developed to address the challenges facing young Black males through mentorship, education, and self-development.
BaM became a defining element of UAAM’s mission and played a major role in the organization’s growth and recognition.
As UAAM’s impact became more visible, interest grew beyond Grambling State University. Chapters began forming at other colleges and universities, particularly Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Each chapter carried the same foundational principles while addressing the specific needs of its campus and surrounding community. This expansion marked UAAM’s evolution into a national fellowship organization.
With continued growth came the need for structure. UAAM established a formal national leadership framework to preserve organizational standards, guide expansion, and ensure continuity across generations.
The establishment of the National Headquarters in Tyler, Texas provided a centralized foundation for supporting chapters and safeguarding the organization’s history and mission.
Today, United AfriKan American Men, Inc. continues to build upon the foundation laid in 1993. Chapters across the nation remain committed to academic excellence, leadership development, community service, mentorship, and cultural awareness.
UAAM’s history is not confined to dates or milestones—it lives through the daily actions of its members. From Genesis to present day, UAAM stands as a testament to what is possible when Black men unite with purpose and vision.
“It All Began and Will End in Our Hands.”