Source: https://indianexpress.com/
Father’s Day, celebrated on the third Sunday of June in many countries, is often seen through the lens of commercialism, with a plethora of gifting options and discounts marketed to honor fathers. However, the origins of this day are deeply personal, rooted in the efforts of one American woman, Sonora Smart Dodd, who sought to honor the memory of her father, William Jackson Smart.
The Genesis of Father’s Day
The story begins in 1910 when Sonora Smart Dodd, inspired by a Mother’s Day sermon, questioned why there wasn’t a day to celebrate fathers. Her father, a widower and Civil War veteran, had single-handedly raised Dodd and her five siblings. Motivated by the dedication and love of her father, Dodd campaigned for a day to honor fathers. Her initial efforts led to the first Father’s Day celebration in Spokane, Washington, in June 1910, supported by the local clergy and the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA).
The Path to Recognition
Despite initial local success, Father’s Day did not gain immediate national recognition. Dodd’s idea faced significant resistance and took decades to gain widespread acceptance. Early criticisms labeled it as a commercial gimmick, and there were calls to replace it with a more inclusive “Parent’s Day.” Nonetheless, the economic boost provided by the Great Depression and World War II helped cement the celebration, as it encouraged spending and boosted the economy.
Presidential Proclamations and Official Recognition
Support from various U.S. Presidents played a crucial role in the eventual recognition of Father’s Day. President Woodrow Wilson, Calvin Coolidge, and Lyndon B. Johnson all supported the idea. However, it wasn’t until 1972 that Father’s Day was officially recognized as a national holiday by President Richard Nixon. In his proclamation, Nixon highlighted the importance of fathers in shaping the identity and values of their children, calling it a “rich patrimony.”
The Choice of the Third Sunday in June
The specific choice of the third Sunday in June traces back to the initial celebration in Spokane. Dodd had originally proposed June 5, her father’s birthday, but the local clergy needed more time to prepare, leading to the first celebration on June 19, 1910. This date then influenced the choice of the third Sunday in June for future celebrations.
Global Influence and Other Observances
Father’s Day, while prominently celebrated in June, has different dates and customs worldwide. For instance, in many Catholic countries, March 19 is observed as St. Joseph’s Day, honoring the husband of the Virgin Mary and Jesus’s earthly father.
Modern-Day Celebrations
Today, Father’s Day is a global event marked by billions of dollars spent on gifts and festivities, reflecting both its commercial success and its deep personal significance for many. The spread of globalization has brought these celebrations to countries like India, highlighting the universal appeal of honoring fatherhood.
Conclusion
Father’s Day stands as a testament to the enduring love and dedication of fathers, shaped by the persistent efforts of Sonora Smart Dodd. From a single woman’s tribute to her father, it has grown into a day of widespread celebration, acknowledging the vital role fathers play in the lives of their children.
Read more about this story here: https://childreninfobank.com/safebank/why-is-fathers-day-celebrated-on-the-third-sunday-of-june/
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