In a world still grappling with outdated stereotypes, dad and author Jake Thompson is making waves with his line of shirts that promote a fresh perspective on fatherhood. Frustrated by the prevalence of harmful messages on apparel, such as “Just shoot the first one and the word will spread,” Jake decided to take action. He launched his collection, called Everyday Girl Dad, which highlights the empowering aspects of raising daughters and redefines what it means to be a man.
Jake shares that his experience with his daughters, 5-year-old Mia and 3-year-old Zoe, serves as a significant influence behind his creations. “The typical dad-versus-dates narrative doesn’t reflect our relationship at all,” he explains. “My daughters are incredibly strong, and my hope is that these shirts convey that men can admire and look up to women too.”
Importantly, Jake clarifies that his shirts do not suggest that fathers should abandon their protective instincts. “Wearing these shirts doesn’t mean I don’t care about my daughters’ safety or futures,” he states. “Rather, I aim to nurture my relationship with them in a way that is supportive, not threatening.” His designs draw a clear line between respecting a daughter’s autonomy and treating her like property, illustrating the positive side of parenting.
Beyond empowering girls, Jake hopes his shirts inspire men and boys to reconsider traditional gender roles. “While I recognize the challenges girls face growing up, I’m equally aware of the constraints placed on boys,” he notes. “Masculinity can encompass a range of emotions and expressions—it includes everything from crying to wearing a dress, alongside typical sports activities.”
Jake also envisions a future where his shirts contribute to meaningful causes. Once he covers his operating expenses, he hopes to donate profits to organizations that foster healthier definitions of masculinity or assist victims of sexual assault. “I may not be a fundraising expert or a clothing designer, but I want to make a difference,” he says. “Many of these organizations could use the support.”
One shirt, in particular, has garnered attention. “The Dad Who Cries When Bing Bong Dies” has sparked positive conversations, as that scene from the movie Inside Out resonates deeply with many.
Jake’s ultimate goal is to encourage other dads to embrace varied expressions of masculinity and be more involved in their daughters’ lives, moving beyond the conventional protector role. “Share those moments of doing science experiments, reading together, or simply talking for hours,” he encourages. “It’s these experiences, not the rejection of them, that truly define manhood.”
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In summary, Jake Thompson’s shirts are not just fashion statements; they challenge stereotypes, inspire deeper connections between fathers and daughters, and promote a healthier understanding of masculinity. By embracing a more inclusive approach to fatherhood, Jake hopes to empower both men and women to break free from traditional norms.