Hey John,

Today is Father’s Day, a moment to celebrate all the dads who lead with love. And while some may not hold the official title of “dad,” many of you fill that role, offering wisdom, advice, and strength to your families, communities, and villages. Not always with big speeches or long talks, but with encouragement and the kind of lessons that stick with you.

In a world that doesn’t always make it easy to speak out or be heard, their advice has been a steady reminder to keep going — to speak up, stand firm, and use our voices for the things that matter most. This week, I asked some of our team to share the wisdom that their own fathers or father figures have passed down to them. Here’s what they had to say:

“I was raised by a single father who was a community activist and in the labor movement, so I grew up knowing we had the right to fight for people’s rights. As a child he poured into me that I was a smart and powerful Black girl , and as an adult one of the many pieces of advice he’s shared with me is to not be afraid to go alone — not everyone will go and that doesn’t mean that I have to miss the opportunity — we can always go again together.” — Sondra Roberts, Chief of Staff/Managing Director of Programs & Operations

“My father has always believed in the power of learning by doing. He never forced me into anything or told me who I had to be — instead, he gave me the space to try, to stumble, and to grow. He led by example, showing me what it means to move through the world with integrity. Whether it was how he treated others, how he stood firm in his values, or how he showed up for our family, he taught me that doing the right thing — even when no one is watching — is what truly defines character. That quiet strength shaped how I show up in every part of my life.” — Nandi Henderson, Associate Director, Digital Engagement

“My dad always encouraged us to be our best — and reminded us there’s always room to grow. One of his favorite sayings is, ‘Good, better, best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better and your better is best. He instilled in us the importance of giving back to the communities that shaped us — a lesson I carry with me every day.” — Beth Lynk, Executive Director

Our voices are powerful. For some of us, that power was first shaped by a father figure who taught us how to speak with courage and conviction. This Father’s Day, we honor those lessons. And we carry them forward — into our work, our communities, and our fight for a more just and equitable future.

— Nandi

Nandi Henderson
Associate Director, Digital Engagement
When We All Vote 🗳️

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