On the occasion of Father’s Day, I want to acknowledge the men who work with and for Faith in Action: our staff, our allies and supporters. I see you, I appreciate you, and I value your commitment to equity and the love you pour into all the work that you do.

It is because of your sacrifice, dedication and ceaseless commitment to this movement that we are able to advance the cause of racial justice. And though we’ve much work ahead, you daily set the example of how real men of honor approach their work: with humility, integrity and dignity.  I’m honored to call you my colleagues, and I’m sure many people are honored to call you Dad, Uncle, Pop and other names that reflect their respect and love.

Men, we stand on the brink of a new day; a day when masculinity will be defined by our capacity to love and “men’s work” will be centered around our deep care for our families and communities. We can each work to usher in that day by remembering to treat women with the care and respect they deserve and to set that example with our sons and daughters. To work for racial justice, we must be on the frontlines working for gender justice as well.

Proverbs 20:7 says that the “just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.”  On this Father’s Day I call on each of you to continue walking with integrity, changing communities and building a better world. The children are watching, and I hope learning from your good example.