“Dads Across America: Three Heartfelt Stories of Fatherhood”

Family Americans Celebrate Dads in 2023: Three Perspectives on Fatherhood

By | June 17, 2023 | 5:00 AM ET

It’s been over a century since Americans began celebrating Father’s Day, and fatherhood has undoubtedly evolved over the years. As we approach this year’s Father’s Day, three diverse dads share their experiences and insights into what it means to be a father in the United States today.

Parenting Between Deployments – Duane Jolly

Duane Jolly, a 47-year-old retired Army sergeant major, reflects on his experiences of being a father while serving in the military. With deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, and Qatar, Jolly missed numerous milestones in his children’s lives. He noticed the impact his absence had on his children’s behavior and academic performance. Jolly emphasizes the importance of readjustment when returning home and reconnecting with one’s family. Now retired, he is committed to being present for his youngest daughter and ensuring he never misses another birthday. Jolly acknowledges the sacrifices made not only by himself but also by his family, highlighting the noble effort of serving one’s country.

Navigating Pregnancy as a Dad – Kayden Coleman

Kayden Coleman, a 37-year-old transgender man, shares his unique experience of becoming pregnant. Despite undergoing top surgery and temporarily stopping hormone treatment, he discovered that he was expecting not once but twice. Coleman faced discrimination and disbelief within the medical system. People often assumed that trans individuals should not or do not want to have children. He challenges these misconceptions and emphasizes that being trans does not diminish one’s desire or ability to be a parent. Coleman believes that being a trans dad gives him unique insights into society’s perception of women and allows him to provide a safe and empowering environment for his children.

Moving to the U.S. with Two Toddlers – Jorge Mata

Jorge Mata, a 58-year-old immigrant from Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, shares his journey of moving to the United States with his wife and two young children. After experiencing violence in Mexico, Mata made the difficult decision to leave for the safety of his family. The move was challenging, as they did not speak English and had no home or car upon arrival. Despite the hardships, Mata views the move as necessary for his family’s well-being. Today, he is working in medicine and cherishes the relationships he has built with his children, who have both pursued higher education and become successful adults.

Editorial – Redefining Fatherhood

The stories of these three fathers reflect the diverse experiences of fatherhood in modern America. Whether it’s navigating the challenges of military deployment, redefining traditional gender roles, or starting anew in a foreign country, these dads demonstrate resilience and love.

Fatherhood has evolved beyond traditional gender norms and nuclear family structures. It is vital to recognize and celebrate the diverse ways in which individuals can be fathers. Society should not confine fatherhood to biological ties or predetermined roles but rather embrace the role fathers play in nurturing, guiding, and providing for their children.

These stories also highlight the sacrifices that fathers and their families make. Whether it’s missing important moments in their children’s lives, facing discrimination, or uprooting their lives for the sake of safety, fathers go above and beyond to prioritize their families’ well-being.

Advice for Fathers

Regardless of background or circumstance, the essence of fatherhood remains the same – to provide love, support, and guidance for one’s children. It is crucial for fathers to prioritize communication, understanding, and active participation in their children’s lives. By being present and engaged, fathers can help shape the next generation and create a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Father’s Day serves as a reminder to appreciate and recognize the efforts of fathers everywhere. Let us celebrate and honor the fathers who work hard to ensure the well-being and success of their children, and let’s continue to redefine and expand our understanding of what it means to be a father in the 21st century.