‘My Rainbow Dads’ book signing, reading held at Sentro Rizal, DC

Author Ivy Wilcher reads from “My Rainbow Dads” to the children who attended the event at Sentro Rizal. CONTRIBUTED

A book signing of Ivy Wilcher’s My Rainbow Dads, was hosted by Sentro Rizal, Washington DC and a Fil-Am teachers’ organization to mark Pride Month in the U.S. as well the 125 anniversary of the Philiippines’ independence and the 162nd birth anniversary of National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal.

My Rainbow Dads is a colorfully illustrated book that talks about how every family is different. It aims to teach children about social awareness and self-awareness.

“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,” Wicher explained. “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.”

As part of the Embassy’s efforts “to promote gender and development awareness in the Filipino community,” Sentro Rizal of the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. hosted the book signing for Rainbow Dads at the Philippine Embassy’s Quezon Hall.

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Wilcher is a member of the Filipino community and a teacher specializing in special and general education. She is also one of United Federation of Fil-Am Educators (UNIFFIED) Maryland Chapter’s board members.

“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 Iric Arribas.

Aside from book signing, a book reading session, community singing of “True Colors”and arts and crafts stations for the children and their parents enlivened the event.

Wilcher donated the book to the Philippine Embassy, and it’s now 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).