Celebrate Parenthood on the Global Day of Parents

Saturday, June 1 marks the 7th annual United Nations (UN) Global Day of Parents. This holiday began in 2012 when the UN passed a resolution to acknowledge parents throughout the world. This is a special day to appreciate mothers and fathers for the sacrifices they make for their families, and for their daily commitment to raising children in homes filled with love and understanding.

There are many ways that you can make this June 1 significant. You can honor your parents by thanking them for the difference they have made in your life. If you live far away, call your parents to say what you appreciate about them. If you live close enough, consider hosting a celebration just for them. Cook their favorite food and invite the whole family over to participate. If you have someone in your life who treated you with the same love and kindness that a parent would have given, find a way to thank them, too.

Today, the demands placed on parents are harder than ever. Our society is highly competitive, and parents are judged harshly. They are expected to enroll their children in dance, music and sports teams while also helping them achieve straight A’s. Break the cycle of judgment in your community by praising parents, especially mothers, when you see them out and about with their children. Get to know them personally when you can. And, if you see a parent struggling, ask how you can help.

On the UN website, they stress that to truly support our parents we must promote policies that are family-oriented. These policies should aim to eradicate poverty and hunger, to promote happiness and well-being, to encourage education and to strive for gender equality. If you want to become an agent of change, become involved in your local government and push for solutions that will help families to succeed.

How do you plan on observing this year’s Global Day of Parents? Let us know in the comments below!