A Father’s Day Pledge To Our Children

By Michael Hill and Alex Prout

To my children, you have seen all too well that the institutions that are meant to protect you often fail and that justice is often unfairly on the side of whoever has the most to lose. I vow to do my part to change this. Here is my Father’s Day promise to you. 

I pledge, as your Dad, to see you for the individual you are. 

I pledge to listen more. 

I pledge to work to recognize the biases I carry as part of both my intentional and unintentional lived experiences in the world, in the workplace, and in our home. 

I pledge to never stop trying to learn, especially regarding inequality in the world and the privilege I have unknowingly at times carried. 

I pledge to make amends as needed, because only by recognizing my mistakes can I truly grow. 

I pledge to try to learn a new way to express myself, and remember so many old ways don’t suffice.  

I pledge to remember that while I cannot fix the past, or anyone else, I can focus on my own growth and strive to be an example of what I hope for you in your life and relationships.  

I pledge to be there for you, without judgment, when you call. 

I pledge that you will know what it means to be loved unconditionally. 

I pledge that you have autonomy over your body, your life, and your hopes and dreams.  I am a supporting player, who will continue to cheer you on. And I will support you to fight to claim those rights if anyone tries to take them from you.