"Give Peace A Chance" says Ambassador Bird

For children’s cartoon characters to make it in the world of toy and product licensing, they have to either be part of a big broadcaster’s stable (think of Nickelodeon’s “Fairly Odd Parents”) or have an attitude (think of the sarcastic “Happy Bunny”) that makes them stand out from the crowd.

A New York artist and writer, Bill Weber, is trying to go against this trend. He brings his character to Licensing International, the giant marketplace of licensing being held at the Javits Center from June 20-23, with a different strategy: peace.

Weber’s character is called “Ambassador Bird,” and he is the white dove of peace, re-imagined as a heroic character for pre-school children.

“The dove has represented peace, friendship, and bravery ever since Noah sent one out on a special mission to find land,” says Weber. “With the state of the world, I believe it’s time for peace and global awareness to land into children’s entertainment.”

For the past three years, Ambassador Bird “Increase The Peace” buttons and stickers have been sold via the internet to children across the country. “Children have been forming ‘peace clubs’ in their schools,” says Weber, “and using Ambassador Bird as a symbol of their wish for peace.”

Ambassador Bird and his four traveling companions celebrate the lifestyles, culture, and cuisine of children around the world.

Ambassador Avery travels with a multi-species group of animals. Stockholm May, a fussy, crabby, seagull and Luchow, his tiny stray kitten, are foodies. They run a truck stop in America, and cause chaos whenever they visit a foreign kitchen because they want to do things their way. Ricotta Van Cheddars is the “McGyver” of the group. She’s super-organized, keeping the travelers on schedule and creatively fixing things when they break down. Rosalia, a beautiful bird of paradise, is the group’s conscience. She makes sure that everyone is thinking and working together. Finally, there is Avery, who is Ambassador Bird himself. He is the leader of the group, making sure that everyone participates and is heard.

Weber explains that “Ambassador Bird is not about adult concerns like war and politics and terrorism. The characters teach tolerance and understanding through simple concepts like getting to know your neighbor, trying new things, and loving one another. The characters empower children to speak up and take care of themselves and their families.”