By Tristan Picotte | Published: June 16, 2020. Father’s Day is June 21, and we’re recognizing the critical importance of Ates (Lakota for Fathers) in the development of young minds and hearts. Fathers have a hand in teaching their children life skills, guiding smart life choices and, in early life, providing a sense of safety. They also take on this role as a distraction— if they’re succeeding in school or sports or extra-curricular activities, the family dysfunction is overshadowed and hidden by their accomplishments. If they can get straight A’s in school, then their family looks perfect.