Newark has a new initiative to encourage Black men to read with children in the community.

The mayor declared Oct. 20 as Black Men Read Day. It is promoted by United Way of Greater Newark, University of Chicago and My Very Own Library. Several community and political leaders went to New Jersey schools to celebrate by reading to students. 

News 12's Della Crews was joined by directors Duane Davis and Karen Leach-Toomer, and United Way of Great Newark CEO Catherine Wilson about the importance of the program.