The fight for women’s rights has lasted for decades, and gender equality is expected in the United States. However, after a sarcastic blog was posted on The Onion suggesting an end to Father’s Day, people, primarily women, began tweeting #EndFathersDay. Many of the tweets implied that Father’s Day encouraged rape culture and male dominance; with one tweet even saying that 100% of child abuse was caused by men.

Father’s Day was created to celebrate father figures, not place men above women or encourage abuse.

By following the critics’ logic, every holiday should be ended. Valentine’s Day should not be celebrated because not everyone has a significant other. Christmas should be ended because not everyone is Christian. Even though not everyone grew up with a father, people still have father figures they look up to in their lives. People should be allowed to honor those who have played the father figure role.

Gender criticism is not acceptable. In modern society, many well-known abuse cases involve a man beating a woman or children. This gives many people the idea that men are the only abusers, and that it is okay to hate men. Both genders are capable of verbal and physical abuse. Why is it okay for women to criticize men, but not for men to criticize women? Could you imagine the outcry if #EndMothersDay started trending? Women have achieved equality, and some are now pushing for a superior position.

People who grew up or are growing up without a father or other parental figure can still find someone who can fulfill that role. Teachers, coaches, friends’ parents and others are willing to step up and offer the guidance that some may miss at home.

Regardless of differences in families, respecting and honoring those of either gender who guide, protect and love their families is important and should be valued.