Young black males in contemporary American society face major challenges to their development and well-being. Social, cultural, and economic forces have combined to keep black males from assuming traditional masculine roles. Counselors committed to the cause of black male empowerment can play an active role in promoting developmental initiatives at both the elementary and secondary level. Empowerment interventions for young black males must take into account African and African/American culture and its crucial role in fostering socialization. Counselors committed to black male empowerment may need to assume the role of educational advocate. (ABL)