As Orange County celebrates Father’s Day, I want to take a moment to reflect on the important role you play in shaping your children’s lives. The lessons you impart, the behaviors you model, and the love you consistently show form the foundation of their understanding of what a healthy relationship looks like.
In recent years, the term “girl dad” has gained popularity, celebrating fathers who are deeply involved in their daughters’ lives and whose experience raising a daughter has shaped their perspective on how they relate to women. Often challenging traditional gender roles, “girl dads” encourage their daughters to be assertive and confident.
I am the proud daughter of a “girl dad” who taught me to believe in myself, value who I am, and that anything is possible. Above all else my dad showed me the power of having an unwavering ally.
Dads as allies recognize the vital role fathers play in modeling healthy relationships for both their daughters and sons. By understanding and embracing the role of an ally you have become agents of positive change.
The way you demonstrate empathy, active listening, and mutual respect for your children sets a standard for how they should treat others and expect to be treated. It shows your daughters that their voices matter, fostering their confidence and self-worth.
The way you make it possible for your children to express their feelings and experiences allows your children to discuss any issues they may face, including those related to relationships and potential abuse, without fear of judgment.
The way that you support their interests and affirm positive behavior builds their self-esteem and sense of self-worth. By encouraging kindness, respect, and empathy, you help them internalize these values, making them less likely to engage in or tolerate abusive behavior.
Thank you for your commitment to modeling healthy relationships, fostering open communication, and supporting your children in every aspect of their growth. You are helping to build a future generation that values respect, equality, and kindness, and for that, we are profoundly grateful for your allyship.
With deep appreciation,
Maricela Rios-Faust
