As part of our brand refresh, the trustees have proposed a change of name to "Both Parents Matter" (Formerly Families Need Fathers). The latter part being temporary and will be dropped when "Both Parents Matter" has gained acceptance.
Pros to the change
It better reflects what we do and our aspirations. We are not a father’s right organisation, but a children’s rights one. Children are entitled, unless there is a reason otherwise, to a full and free relationship with both their parents and their wider families both sides. Half the children involved are girls. When fathers get control of their children they are just as possessive and as likely to shut out the mother and her family. We then support their right to her and her family.
There have been several incidents recently of people who should support our cause backing off, some explicitly mentioning our name.
Despite an increasing number of mother and grandmother members, the name is seen as ‘sexist’ and a cover for male rights and even male supremacist activity. We are not. We are an equal responsibility outfit that respects diversity.
Cons to the change
It is indeed fathers who are victims of the system. Our reply, ‘no, it is their children.’ However, we acknowledge the great issue that fatherlessness is in the UK and how this affects the welfare of children.
This is a sub- issue of a growing tendency to devalue and discriminate against men. Our reply: this is outside our remit.
We have a tradition and a reputation. The reply: we value both, but our reputation is now mainly with people who have enough dealings with us to realise the continuity. And we need to broaden it.
People in need come to us by typing ‘fathers’ in search engines. We need to keep that. Yes, we certainly do, but these tributaries can still be directed into the river.
We risk alienating some of our members and activists. Yes, we want to keep them on board, which is why we are opening this dialogue and asking for views. The decision is up to the members, so let’s work towards maximum agreement.
A change will require a ¾ vote at an AGM. So, comments please, but remember that while you have the vote, the question is how to get the maximum support for our cause, outside as well and inside.
What do you think?
Send us feedback!