WHEREAS, fathers are vital in the upbringing of their children and to their healthy development and well-being; and
WHEREAS, research shows that a father’s involvement can lead to positive educational outcomes for children; and
WHEREAS, with fathers actively engaged, children are less vulnerable to mental illness, juvenile delinquency, youth sexual activity, teenage pregnancy, substance abuse, childhood poverty, and failure to complete high school; and
WHEREAS, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 1 in 4 children live without a biological, step, or adoptive father in the home; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina is leading a Kinship First Culture with local and state agencies and communities to produce better outcomes for children; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages service, civic, and religious organizations, as well as child welfare agencies, courts, schools, businesses, and individuals to join in commemorating Fatherhood Awareness Month with appropriate ceremonies and activities that recognize the importance of supporting fathers of children and youth in our communities;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim June, 2023, as “FATHERHOOD AWARENESS MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.