Best-selling author to speak about gender identity

April 09, 2012

Students at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater are invited to hear best-selling author and speaker Cheryl Kilodavis speak at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 13, in the Summers Auditorium. She will share a riveting presentation on acceptance and inclusion. The event is free and open to the public.

Kilodavis is best known for her book, "My Princess Boy," a nonfiction picture book about her son Dyson. Dyson expresses his authentic self by happily wearing dresses, jewelry and anything pink or sparkly. The book is written from Cheryl's point of view, sharing both good and bad observations and experiences with friends and family, at school and in stores.

"Kilodavis tells a beautiful story not of tolerance, but acceptance," said Robin Fox, associate professor of curriculum and instruction. "We hope to embrace uniqueness and hopefully one day celebrate differences."

The goal of Kilodavis' book and presentation is to create a space where people who are different, feel different or express themselves differently can be accepted for who they are.

"Unfortunately, a lot of young people aren't given the support they need," Fox said. "But I think our campus is working diligently to meet people's needs. It takes work and understanding, and I think we're making those things accessible."

An international advocate of worldwide acceptance, Kilodavis has been featured on NBC's Today Show, Dr. Phil, National Public Radio and has been interviewed in The New York Times, The London Times and other publications. Her book "My Princess Boy" ranked No. 1 on Amazon's Movers and Shakers list.