National Fatherless Children’s Day
June 22, Sunday
When it is observed
This day takes place on the fourth Sunday of June each year.
History of the observance
In November 2020, Donald Adams of the organization Finding Fathers, Inc. proposed to establish the day. It was first observed on June 27, 2021, and officially registered in the National Day Archives.
Purpose and importance
The day aims to raise awareness about the challenges and consequences of father absence:
* Raising awareness of the emotional, social, and academic difficulties experienced by children growing up without a father’s involvement
* Supporting teenagers and families in this situation
* Reminding that family is not just biological ties, but care, responsibility, and love
How to observe
Common ways to participate include:
1. Visiting shelters or spending time with children without fatherly presence
2. Donating to or volunteering for Finding Fathers, Inc. and similar initiatives
3. Sharing information through social media, articles, and conversations to increase public awareness
Statistics highlighting the importance
* Around 33% of children in the U.S. live without their biological father; the rate is 57.6% among Black children, 31.2% among Hispanic children, and 20.7% among white children
* Children without a father’s presence are more likely to face poverty, anxiety, behavioral issues, and lower educational outcomes