Happy Father's Day

Have you ever had that feeling where you were so giddy to share something… like a young child that couldn’t get home fast enough? Well, this is exactly how I felt yesterday as I was reading the history of Father’s Day. So, without further delay, here it goes: Did you know that Father’s Day originated after Mother’s Day?

What is of further interest is that a woman, Sonora Dodd, was the Founder of Father’s Day. Sonora, after hearing a sermon about Mother’s Day, decided to approach her Pastor and inquire as to why they wouldn’t do the same for Father’s. Sonora had grown up witnessing her Father serve as a Soldier during the Civil War, become a farmer, and most notably, with her mother’s passing, become a single Father of 6 children. In her mind, her Father deserved the utmost recognition – as most of us would agree.

Sonora’s passion and dedication weren’t in vain as her Pastor did preach the first sermon, celebrating Father’s Day on June 19th, 1910. Though the public acknowledgement did fade, the awareness of Father’s Day swept the nation. Finally, in 1972, the permanent national observance of Father’s Day was established.

Now, why was I giddy you may be wondering…

History showcases time and time again where women took the leaps of faith to stand for their beliefs. These powerful women influenced and shaped history with their passion, intellect, strength and their ability to stand proud and lead. I’m sure at this point you’re asking yourself: Did Chaunte really just make Father’s Day about female powerhouses?

My response: Yes, yes, I did make this Father’s Day an opportunity to scream "Girl Power" from the rooftops. However, I did so, with great intent, to recognize and honor my own Father who raised me to be his Warrior Princess. For it has been my Father's words of strength and continued encouragement that have enabled me to always push forward.

My, now contained, excitement with sharing Father's Day history, ironically, stems from this past year. As I'm sure many can relate, I experienced gender bias - subtle discrimination on multiple occasions. Finding myself in a whirlwind of emotion and desperation to immediately defend my position, my title, and this perplexing “glass ceiling”; I was silenced. 

Silenced by my Daddy’s words: “There are times when quiet confidence speaks louder than words. Know who you are so that others will see past the surface, to the depth of your character...”

As I continue to reflect on this Fathers Day, I’m first beyond thankful for my Heavenly Father and second for my Father who is always empowering me. He taught me to understand that in order to have a tight core "Holistic Health, Well-being and Resiliency", I must understand and be self aware of my positionality as it applies to the three pillars of Educational Attainment, Financial Literacy, and Vocational Proficiency.

Through strength, and determination we will shatter the “glass ceiling”.

Culture Warriors come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and creeds...

Happy Father’s Day to all those Father’s empowering their children to rise above!