In 2009, U.S. Congress passed House Resolution 780 recognizing the celebration of Filipino American History Month in October commemorating the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the United States at Morro Bay, California on October 18, 1587. On this day, Luzones Indios, native Filipino sailors conscripted into the Spanish navy for labor during the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade, came ashore from the Spanish galleon called Nuestra Senora De Esperanza.
Celebrating Filipino American History Month (FAHM) is about more than just marking a date on the calendar; it’s a vibrant tapestry of history, pursuits, accomplishments, and an enduring legacy. This annual event serves as a bridge connecting Filipinos in the United States to their counterparts in the Philippines. It is an occasion to proudly display our shared culture and heritage, reinforcing the ties that bind us across the seas.
While 1587 was the birth of Filipino presence in the United States, waves of Filipino immigration have swept across the nation since 1898. Early immigrants toiled as agricultural workers, laying the foundations for their compatriots who followed. Subsequent waves saw Filipinos diversifying into various sectors such as education, healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing. Today, the Filipino community has excelled in fields ranging from business and sports to politics, entertainment, entrepreneurship, performing arts, and even the military.
With a staggering 4.4 million Filipinos in the United States, states like California, Hawaii, Texas, and others host significant populations. In fact, Filipinos are now the third largest ethnic Asian group in the United States.
On October 1, 2023, President Biden extended a heartfelt greeting to Filipino Americans, acknowledging their indelible contributions to the fabric of American society:
“As educators, entertainers, entrepreneurs, healthcare workers, lawyers, service members, chefs, and much more, Filipinos and Filipino Americans have been instrumental in shaping the American dream. They’ve helped build our great nation while cherishing their roots, weaving the vibrant heritage and rich culture of the Philippines into the tapestry of our nation. Filipinos and Filipino Americans exemplify the very best of our country, prioritizing service over self and strengthening the bonds that unite us as Americans.”
So, how can you partake in the celebration of Filipino American History Month?
- Join Organized Celebrations: Many cities and states host sponsored events organized by Filipino American community groups and businesses. For instance, in San Francisco, the Filipino American Arts Exposition (FAAE) is joining hands with San Francisco Mayor London Breed and the City and County of San Francisco for a spectacular FAHM celebration on October 26, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the San Francisco City Hall Rotunda. Similar events are sprinkled throughout various states and cities with thriving Filipino populations.
- Discover Filipino American Artists: Filipino American artists have significantly impacted American culture in art, music, literature, and more. Embrace FAHM by experiencing their creative genius. Watch a Filipino Broadway show like “Here Lies Love” or find a Filipino movie available for streaming online. Consider visiting a museum to admire the works of Filipino artists. In San Francisco, the De Young Museum is currently showcasing 883 works by talented Bay Area artists, including the exceptional creations of Filipino artists Abel Manalo and Michelle Bond.
- Visit Your First-Generation Family Member: If grand celebrations or museum outings aren’t your cup of tea, take a moment to appreciate and reconnect with your roots. Visit, call, or send a heartfelt text to your first-generation family member who was responsible for petitioning your family’s journey to the United States. It could be your parents, grandparents, or siblings who made it possible for you to thrive as a second or third-generation immigrant. A simple gesture of gratitude can go a long way in recognizing their invaluable contribution to your success.
In essence, Filipino American History Month is a celebration of resilience, cultural richness, and the enduring spirit of a community that has thrived in the United States for centuries. It’s an invitation to explore, appreciate, and pay homage to the Filipino heritage that enriches America as a nation of immigrants. Join in the festivities, support the arts, and reconnect with your roots to make this month-long celebration truly unforgettable.
