This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2017, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
As Father's Day approaches in this age of rampant political correctness (also known as "respectful society" or "knowing how not to be wildly inappropriate"), it can be tricky to talk to alternative families about traditional family holidays.
How are you supposed to know if one of the women takes Mother's Day and the other one takes Father's Day? Are ties and tools still appropriate gifts? Should you assume both women celebrate Mother's Day? Or should we all be referring to both events as Parents' Day? Or maybe even Guardian's Day A and B? So many questions. So much to consider.
As a lesbian who speaks for all lesbians, I've labored to craft a comprehensive guide on how to address the delicate topic of Father's Day to a family that doesn't include a male parent. It's complex and it's intense, so I've included a flow chart to supplement this dense and intricate material. But, for those really committed to sensitivity, I'd recommend making flash cards and rehearsing these kinds of tough conversations in front of the mirror or a compassionate family member or friend.
Are you ready? Let's dive in:
STEP 1: Ask them if and how they celebrate Father's Day.
STEP 2: Go with the flow.
I hope this all makes sense. I send you on your way with love and light. Good luck out there!
