Dear President Obama and Governor Romney:
In the heat of an election like this, it is easy to only see the things that divide, rather than the things that unite us. The two of you have very different views on many issues, but you both believe – as evidenced by your words and actions – in fatherhood.
I respect the love you show your wives and children. Today, I would like to share with you why I believe the success of our nation and our love for our children are deeply connected. One of the biggest problems facing America today is not the economy or healthcare or terrorism; it is the decline of fatherhood. Here are some alarming statistics on the state of fatherhood in America:
- For the first time in our history, the majority of women under the age of 30 who are having children are doing so outside of marriage.
- Research shows that 24 million children do not live with their biological father.
- Approximately 7 out of 10 African-American children are born to unwed mothers.
- 62% of juvenile offenders grew up without a dad
Too many children are coming into the world without an involved father, while their mothers walk the path of parenthood alone. This is a problem that is defining a generation, and it is something we must address now.
Many men my age grew up with their father in the home. They learned so much from their dad, like I did. I think back on all of the love and advice I received from my dad, and it pains me to realize that so many American children will miss out on that opportunity. So many young men today grow up without their fathers in the picture. As a result, we have a whole generation of males who really haven’t seen what they should aspire to, don’t understand how important their role is as a dad, and don’t know how much they mean to their kids.
I have asked people across America to join me in signing this letter to you, urging you to put the issue of fatherhood at the forefront of our nation’s attention as you discuss issues publicly in the final stretch of this campaign. Now more than ever, American families need strong leadership. I trust and pray that you agree and will stand with us to make tackling the issue of fatherlessness a priority. Thank you again for your service to our country and to your families.
Sincerely,
Tony Dungy
National Spokesman, All Pro Dad
