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Description
Filipino American History Month, observed annually in October, commemorates the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the United States. As the second-largest Asian-American community and the third-largest racial group in California, Filipino Americans have made significant contributions to the nation. Their accomplishments are honored and celebrated throughout this dedicated month.
History
History of Filipino American History Month
Filipino American History Month originated from a need to recognize and celebrate the contributions and achievements of Filipino Americans. The observance began with the efforts of Filipino American advocates and community leaders who sought to highlight the historical and cultural impact of this community in the United States.
The history of Filipino American History Month can be traced back to the early 1990s. In 1992, the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) initiated the first Filipino American History Month celebration. This was part of a broader effort to raise awareness about the Filipino American experience and to promote a more inclusive understanding of American history.
In 2009, Congress officially recognized October as Filipino American History Month, solidifying its place in the national calendar. This designation provided a formal platform to honor the diverse contributions of Filipino Americans to various fields, including arts, sciences, politics, and military service.
Throughout the month of October, events and activities are held across the country to celebrate and educate people about the rich heritage and ongoing impact of Filipino Americans in the United States.
How To Celebrate
- Recognition and Celebration: It provides a dedicated time to recognize and celebrate the significant contributions and achievements of Filipino Americans. This acknowledgment helps to honor their role in shaping American history and culture.
- Educational Opportunity: The month serves as an educational platform to inform the broader public about Filipino American history, culture, and contributions. It helps correct historical oversights and provides a more inclusive view of American history.
- Cultural Pride: For Filipino Americans, the month fosters a sense of pride and identity. It reinforces cultural heritage and strengthens community bonds by highlighting shared experiences and accomplishments.
- Visibility and Representation: Filipino American History Month increases visibility for the Filipino American community, which can lead to greater representation and understanding in various sectors of society, including media, politics, and education.
- Encouragement of Dialogue: It encourages conversations about diversity, inclusion, and the importance of recognizing all cultural contributions. This dialogue can lead to greater empathy and a more comprehensive understanding of different communities within the U.S.
Amazing Facts
Here are few intriguing facts about Filipino Americans that might surprise you:
- Cultural Influence in Hollywood: Filipino Americans have made significant contributions to Hollywood. Notable figures include Lea Salonga, a Tony Award-winning actress known for her roles in "Miss Saigon" and "Les Misérables," and Darren Criss, who won an Emmy Award for his work on "The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story.
- Military Contributions: Filipino Americans have a distinguished history of military service. During World War II, over 260,000 Filipino soldiers fought alongside the U.S. against Japanese forces. The Filipino Veterans of World War II were finally recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal in 2017 for their bravery and service.
- Rich Linguistic Heritage: Filipino Americans contribute to the linguistic diversity of the U.S. Tagalog, one of the major languages spoken in the Philippines, is one of the most commonly spoken Asian languages in America. The Philippines also has around 175 spoken languages and dialects.
- Economic Impact: Filipino Americans are a significant economic force. They are notably active in the healthcare industry, with many serving as nurses, doctors, and other medical professionals. The contributions of Filipino American healthcare workers have been especially prominent during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: Filipino Americans are known for their entrepreneurial ventures. They have made their mark in various industries, from opening successful restaurants and businesses to leading tech startups. For example, Dado Banatao is a Filipino American entrepreneur and engineer who has been influential in Silicon Valley, known for his work in developing semiconductor technology.
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