Fathers Are ParentsPROJECTSupport us

The Fathers Are Parents Manifesto

Children.
Family.
Equality.

A fit father is not a visitor.

Children deserve protection from abuse. We also believe children deserve protection from the unnecessary loss of a loving parent. Those ideas are not opposites.

Children matter.
FATHERS ARE PARENTS.

A shared commitment

What we stand for.

These are the principles each signer affirms in the Fathers Are Parents Pledge. Mothers matter. Fathers matter. Children come first.

  1. I believe children deserve meaningful relationships with both fit, loving parents.

  2. I believe mothers matter.

  3. I believe fathers matter.

  4. I believe separation or divorce should end a relationship between adults, not unnecessarily destroy a child's relationship with a parent.

  5. I believe children should never be used as leverage, punishment, or bargaining chips.

  6. I believe abuse must be taken seriously and investigated fairly.

  7. I believe allegations should be evaluated by evidence and due process.

  8. I believe fit parents should be treated as parents, not visitors.

  9. I believe family courts and the professionals who influence families should be accountable for decisions that affect children's lives.

  10. I believe parenting rights come with parenting responsibilities.

  11. I believe family unity should be preserved whenever it is safe and healthy for the child.

  12. I stand for children, families, equal parenting, and the principle that Fathers Are Parents.

Help someone understand

Start a thoughtful
conversation.

Use the words below, or explain in your own words why children and their relationships matter. Protect private family details when you share.

Children deserve protection from abuse. We also believe children deserve protection from the unnecessary loss of a loving parent. Those ideas are not opposites. Children matter. FATHERS ARE PARENTS.

Put the principles to work

Begin with one
useful step.

Learn from the research. Find resources close to home. Share your experience with care. Bring your skills to the work.