National History
Progressive Black Men was established on the campus of Florida State University by twelve minority students who formed a friendship while enrolled in the Summer Enrichment Program at the university. Their similar interest in academic achievement, self improvement and a commitment to help others reach their potential evolved in them forming an organization that reflected their values.
On November 27, 1989 Progressive Black Men was officially established.
The initial leadership, President Cesar Rodriguez and Vice President Oswald Walker, along with the other original members, devoted countless hours to the new organization. PROMOTING POSITIVE IMAGES OF BLACK MEN was a central theme that guided the development of Progressive Black Men, and remains a pillar of the organization today.