Studies have found that loving and nurturing fathers improve outcomes for children, families and communities. Children with involved and loving fathers are more likely to do well in school, have healthy self esteem, exhibit empathy and avoid risk-taking behaviors.
The first Father’s Day was celebrated in 1910 to honor William Jackson Smart. A Civil War Veteran, William was a single parent who raised his six children. His daughter, Sonora Smart Dodd, approached her pastor after listening to a Mother’s Day sermon in church and shared that fathers should have a similar holiday to honor their work. Several local clergy agreed with this idea and sermons honoring fathers were presented throughout the city of Spokane on June 19, 1910. This celebration continued annually and in 1916, President Woodrow Wilson traveled to Spokane to speak at their Father’s Day celebration. Despite presidential support, it wasn’t until 1966 that President Lyndon B. Johnson issued the first presidential proclamation honoring fathers on the third Sunday in June. Six years later in 1972, President Richard Nixon signed a law making Father’s Day a permanent holiday.
President Obama has focused energy and resources into supporting fathers. The President's Fatherhood Pledge is in response to the need for a conversation on responsible fatherhood and healthy families. The pledge is simple, but impactful:
- I pledge to renew my commitment to family and community.
- I recognize the positive impact that fathers, mothers, mentors and other responsible adults can have on our children and youth, and pledge to do all I can to provide children in my home and throughout my community the encouragement and support they need to fulfill their potential.
Take time this Father’s Day to support and honor the fathers in your life and in your community. If you feel ready, consider mentoring a child or another father. It makes a world of difference. Parenting is the toughest, but most rewarding, job you will have!
Fun fact: Did you know Vice President Joe Biden was awarded Father of the Year in 2016? He says this is the role he is most proud of and gives credit to his own father’s impact on his childhood.
This blog was written by Labor of Love contributors Catherine Roth,CHW, Darlene Lundquist, RN and Kym Halliday Clear, RN.