PRESS RELEASE
WDC-28-2023
16 JUNE 2023
Embassy Press and Information Section
info@phembassy-us.org
WASHINGTON D.C. – As part of the Embassy’s efforts to promote Gender and Development awareness among the Filipino community, the Sentro Rizal of the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. hosted a book signing event for Ms. Ivy Wilcher’s book “My Rainbow Dads” on 16 June 2023 at the Philippine Embassy’s Quezon Hall.
Ms. Wilcher is a member of the Filipino community and a teacher specializing in special education and general education. She is also one of United Federation of FilAm Educators (UNIFFIED) Maryland Chapter’s Board Members. She released her book “My Rainbow Dads” on 27 September 2022. It is a colorful and beautifully illustrated book that talks about how every family is different and it aims to teach children about social awareness and self awareness. The event comes at an opportune time as the United States celebrates Pride Month every June.
Meanwhile, the Philippines is celebrating the 125th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on June 12, and the 162nd birth anniversary of National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal on June 19. In his remarks, Consul General Iric Arribas highlighted the ideals and aspirations of Dr. Rizal.
“Not only are we celebrating our country’s 125th year of Independence but we are also celebrating the birth of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal whose patriotic ideal, national unity, serves as our guiding principle until the present. We acknowledge that diversity strengthens our society but we can only be united once we set aside our differences. We hope that we can foster in our community, in our families, in our children, and especially in ourselves the ideals of unity and love for others, understanding, inclusivity and– this I would like to emphasize– respect for all individuals, regardless of age, religion, race, social status, or gender ” said Consul General Arribas.
When asked about what inspired her to write this children’s book, Mrs. Wilcher shared “I always tell them that I wrote this book hoping that the story will spark a dialogue on social awareness, and the importance and impact of supporting all types of families. I am hoping that this book will be a good resource to parents, teachers, and caregivers to make children aware that families come in all shapes and sizes and it is our differences that make us special.”
Aside from book signing, the event was made more lively and interactive through a book reading session, community singing of the song “True Colors”, and arts and crafts stations for the children and their parents who attended the event.
The program was concluded by a donation of the book from Mrs. Wilcher to the Philippine Embassy. Her book now forms part of the Sentro Rizal WDC’s library.
This event was made possible with the partnership of UNIFFIED Maryland Chapter and the support of Philippine Independence Day Committee of D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (PIDC-DMV).###
