Posted by President Clinton on September 26, 2000 at 14:19:30:
On June 16, 1995, President Clinton requested every agency of the Federal government to review its programs and policies to strengthen the role of fathers in families. Under the leadership of Secretary Donna E. Shalala and Deputy Secretary Kevin Thurm, the Department has undertaken activities that recognize and support the roles of fathers in families. These activities are guided by the following principles:
All fathers can be important contributors to the well-being of their children.
Parents are partners in raising their children, even when they do not live in the same household.
The roles fathers play in families are diverse and related to cultural and community norms.
Men should receive the education and support necessary to prepare them for the responsibility of parenthood.
Government can encourage and promote father involvement through its programs and through its own workforce policies.
The Department’s activities account for those circumstances under which increased involvement by a father or a mother may not be in the best interest of the child. This is true for a small number of children, however. The Department strongly supports family preservation and reunification efforts when they do not risk the safety of the child.
Specific information on the Department’s Fatherhood Initiative: