Happy Father’s Day (“bonne fête papa”)

It is said that Father’s Day was inspired by Mother’ Day when Sonora Smart Dodd decided to hold a similar celebration dedicated to her father. William Dodd was a civil war veteran and widower who single-handedly raised six children after his wife's death in childbirth. The first celebration of the new holiday was held on June 19, 1910 (the third Sunday in June). That tradition has continued worldwide in June with most celebrating on the third Sunday. Father’s Day recognizes the positive roles of fathers and male parenting in the lives of children.

In Haiti, Father's Day (Fête des peres) is celebrated on the last Sunday of June. Although it is not a public holiday like Mother’s Day, it is widely celebrated in Haiti. Fathers are greeted with "bonne fête papa" (Happy Father’s Day). Varying by household, fathers are recognized and celebrated, according to the means of the family, on this day with cards, gifts, breakfast, lunch brunch or early Sunday dinner; whether enjoying the day at the beach or mountains, spending family time or doing favorite activities. Many of the families are poor and co-habitat with other family members. Unfortunately, Haiti has a significant orphan/single parent population and many children that do not reside with their birth father or mother, but rather with relatives, friends or at orphanages.

At the Center of Hope (Haiti), we make a special effort to maintain a bond between our children and their caregivers, particularly those that fulfill the roles of “father” and “mother.” We are struck by the apparent genuine desire of the caregivers to participate in the education of their children. Yes, there are a lot of mores to deal with in working with the caregivers, but they are open to suggestion and new information. Special events and parent-teacher meetings are well attended by the caregivers and the discussions are constructive and informative for everyone.

The mission of Center of Hope (Haiti) is not only to educate the children, but also to be a “father” to them during the most important years of their lives. We encourage them to learn and to play, to respect their caregivers, to show respect for each other and themselves, to share with others and to be trustworthy and truthful. We are proud of our children and the progress they are making.  No one is happier to be a “father” to our children on Father’s Day than the staff of Center of Hope (Haiti).