Folks,

I’ve never made a big deal out of Father’s Day. It’s always been a Hallmark Holiday to me – just another excuse for rampant consumerism.

But this year, Father’s Day does hit a little different.

My youngest graduated from high school last week, and I wasn’t there.

I gave up being part of this milestone with him to be on the campaign trail with Dr. Jill Stein – fighting to end genocide, empire, and capitalism.

I hated to miss this moment, and I’m glad my daughter, his sister, was able to be with him in my place.

We had a long talk about it. Trey knows how proud of him I am. He also knows how important this political journey is.

My kids have been part of my activist journey their entire lives.

I protested the Iraq war with my daughter strapped to my back.

Years later, my son came to protests with me to carry the message on.

I became an activist because I abhor violence and injustice to my very core. All I’ve ever wanted is a world where all of us can coexist, united in our humanity and able to enjoy all of the beauty that makes life worth living.

The moment I became a dad, the urgency of that work went to a whole new level. Now I was fighting for their future, and the future of kids everywhere.

Today, while most Americans are celebrating with cards and giving out gifts like novelty t-shirts and dad gadgets, I sit here thousands of miles away from my own kids fighting a political machine for a shot at justice.

Today, I’m thinking of the children of Gaza who no longer have their fathers.

Today, I’m thinking of the fathers of Gaza who no longer have their children.

Giving up graduation day isn’t much of a sacrifice compared to what we’re fighting for...and I know my son understands that.

In my 35 years of activism, I’ve watched the twin evils of capitalism and war strip our planet of its natural resources and strip our people of our humanity and dignity.

In one sense I have never been more fearful of what the future holds for them. In another sense, I have never been more inspired by the ingenuity, determination, and commitment of young organizers today.

Our children deserve everything. Every opportunity to thrive and fulfill their destiny. They are the reason I fight so hard.

No, I’m not celebrating Father’s Day today. I am recommitting myself to fighting for them.

In solidarity,

Jason