By Cynthia Martin
For the Sequim Gazette
Did you know Father’s Day started with a woman from Spokane, Washington?
In 1909, Sonora Smart Dodd came up with the idea after being inspired by her own father, who raised her and her five siblings alone after their mother passed away. Watching him step into both parenting roles with strength and love, she felt it was only right that fathers receive the same recognition as mothers.
At the time, her idea was met with laughter and resistance. But Sonora persisted. In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge gave Father’s Day its first official nod. Decades later, in 1972, President Richard Nixon made it a permanent national holiday, to be celebrated on the third Sunday in June.
Fast forward to today, and the role of fathers has evolved dramatically. Gone are the days when dads were seen primarily as breadwinners. In today’s households — especially with most parents working — fathers are equally hands-on. They change diapers, calm midnight meltdowns, play superheroes on the living room floor, coach T-ball, help with math homework, read bedtime stories, and show up at parent-teacher conferences. The modern dad is a full partner in parenting — and that’s a powerful shift.
This evolution is more than just a cultural trend; it’s a force that strengthens families. When kids see their dad present, engaged, and emotionally available, they thrive. A father’s role is critical for their emotional security, social development, and sense of stability.
As Father’s Day approaches (June 15 this year), take a moment to reflect on the role of the father in your family. What makes him unique? What does he contribute that enriches your child’s life? Talk with your children about what they notice and appreciate — it might surprise you. Writing their thoughts down can be a simple but meaningful way to capture what makes Dad special.
And while you’re at it, think about your own father. What did he bring to your life that you still carry with you? For me, my dad insisted I learn to drive early on because my mom didn’t drive and he needed help. I’ll never forget the first time he let me drive heavy equipment at age 11 — or the massive construction truck I drove to high school.
He didn’t finish high school himself, but he pushed me to go as far as I could in my education. He told unforgettable stories, loved his grandkids deeply, and made a lasting impact over the many years he outlived my mother.
Your kids deserve to know who your father was, too — not just the good parts, but the real parts. Let them hear that your dad got frustrated with you sometimes, just like theirs does. It helps them understand that fatherhood isn’t about being perfect — it’s about showing up and caring deeply, even on hard days.
So this Father’s Day, go all in. Make it more than a card or a tie. Celebrate the real difference dads make. Make it a family day full of recognition, love, and gratitude — for today’s dads, yesterday’s dads, and the generations still learning what it means to be one.
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Cynthia Martin is the founder of the First Teacher program and former executive director of Parenting Matters Foundation, which published newsletters for parents, caregivers and grandparents.
