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Why October?
Filipino American History Month (FAHM) in October commemorates the first Filipinos to arrive in the continental United States at what is now Morro Bay, California on October 18, 1587.
In 1992, the Filipino American National Historical Society introduced FAHM, and in 2009 U.S. Congress officially recognized October as FAHM in the U.S.
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History & Heritage
"History is inclusive of heritage and culture, but it’s also about the ways we have built and changed this nation...whereas heritage is more limited to what we pass down in terms of culture, tradition, and legacies.” - the late Dr. Dawn Mabalon, renowned historian and community leader, who was also believed to be the first Pinay to earn a Ph.D. in American History from Stanford University.
From veterans to Tony award winners, from labor movement leaders to gold medalists, we invite you to discover the rich and diverse stories, people and history of Filipino American culture.
1. Honor the Filipino Veterans from World War II
View A Long Road to Dignity, an exhibit portraying Filipino veterans’ wartime experiences and a long struggle in its aftermath.
Ciriaco Ladines (2019) by FilVetRepFilipinas Heritage Library
In World War II, Filipino soldiers responded to the call of duty, fighting alongside American allies. This exhibit highlights the Filipino veterans' wartime experiences, their contributions to rights movements in America and how they value themselves as they strive to maintain dignity.
2. Learn about Larry Itliong
Larry Itliong was a leader in The Delano Grape Strike of 1965, and the labor movement for better wages and working conditions for farmers.
Itliong partnered with Cesar Chavez to lead the formation of the United Farm Workers of America (UFW) union.
By Michael RougierLIFE Photo Collection
The Delano Grape Strike remains the iconic labor struggle of the 20th century. Alongside Philip Vera-Cruz and Dolores Huerta, the strike spanned more than five years and prompted an international grape boycott.
3. Remember Filipino Immigrants at Angel Island
Filipino immigrants arrived at Angel Island, San Francisco between 1910 and 1940, along with thousands of others seeking the opportunity and freedom that the "American dream" represented.
Angel Island Profile: Eliseo Felipe (2012-06) by Jeffrey Chin, Leapman ProductionsAngel Island Immigration Station
Hear from Eliseo Felipe: In 1933, when the Philippines was under U.S. colonial rule, Eliseo’s entry into the U.S. was unaffected by laws that barred other Asians. But after the Philippines became independent, he was taken to Angel Island where he was interrogated and detained for two days.
4. Meet Antero Cabrera
Antero Cabrera, an Igorot born in Luzon, Philippines during the rise of the U.S. as an imperial power, participated in the 1904 World’s Fair. The fair juxtaposed the modern U.S. nation with a sensationalized interpretation of the "primitive" nature of the U.S.'s newest territory: the Philippines.
Photograph of Antero CabreraCenter for Asian American Media (CAAM)
This meant leaning into Igorot practices “shocking” to an American audience for their delight, judgement, and entertainment. Cabrera takes advantage of the opportunity to explore a world previously not open to him, meet new individuals, and make a living using his intellect, skills, and abilities to build a life for his family.
5. Salute the Filipina warriors and survivors of WWII
"Every war is a war on women", said Filipina American novelist, M. Evelina Galang.
Warriors (1946) by Philippines Free PressFilipinas Heritage Library
Filipinas took on various roles and tasks during WWII. Many of them served as medical aides or nurses for Filipino and American guerrillas and prisoners of war. Women also served as messengers and spies, and as fighting warriors in both guerrilla and Huk battalions.
6. Deep dive into Vicki Manalo Draves’ Olympic journey
From the South of Market district of San Francisco to the 1948 Summer Olympics in London, Draves became the first female and Asian American woman to win an Olympic gold in both the platform and springboard events.
By John FloreaLIFE Photo Collection
In Tagalog, “Manalo” means “win”. Discrimination against Asians was fierce after the Pearl Harbor attack. Draves wasn’t allowed in pools in the Bay Area, and was asked to conceal her Filipino heritage and use her mother's name – Taylor. Despite odds against her, she proudly accepted two gold medals for Team USA in London.
7. Pay homage to Lea Salonga
Salonga was the first Filipina and Asian American to win Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical at the Tony Awards.
Salonga, LeaLIFE Photo Collection
Most famously known as the singing voice of Princess Jasmine from Aladdin and Fa Mulan for Mulan, Lea Salonga's rise to fame began when she won in 1991 for playing the lead role of Kim in Miss Saigon (1989-2001).
8. Recognize Tani Cantil-Sakauye
Cantil-Sakauye is the first Filipino American and the second woman to serve as California’s Chief Justice. She has led efforts to reform the bail system, decriminalize minor traffic offenses, and improve civic education.
9. Discover Filipina American artist Jenifer K Wofford
Wofford is a San Francisco-based Filipina American artist whose socially-engaged practice plays with notions of hybridity, authenticity, and global culture.
In her mural "Pattern Recognition", Wofford hopes the work will elevate underrepresented histories and strengthen the connection between the museum and the local community.
10. Celebrate Filipinos in America
Celebrate Filipino American history, people, art and culture yesterday, today and tomorrow.
