In the Filipino American community, October holds significance, designated as Filipino American History month. This annual observance serves to commemorate and honor the valuable legacy and impact of Filipino Americans in the United States.
I am grateful to witness an increasing number of Filipino American families embracing their history and heritage by organizing events, documenting their past, showcasing art exhibitions, hosting discussions, and engaging in various activities that strengthen bonds. I literally didn't know it was a thing and we literally had a whole month dedicated to it! Yipieee! So I thought to myself different ways one could celebrate Filipino American history month.
During Filipino American History Month, my family and I are commemorating by delving into books authored by Filipino American children's book writers. We are also reconnecting with our multi-generational heritage by sharing stories around the table, preparing banana lumpia, cook sinigang, bake ensamada and reminiscing about our past experiences. This serves as an ideal method to preserve our personal history, share laughter, tears, find solace, and nurture optimism.
Celebrating Filipino American History month can be fun, insightful and rewarding, and you don't even have to be of Filipino decent to participate! Check out some ideas below.
(Keep in mind there are hundreds more brilliant Filipino American organizations and individuals who are contributing to our history. Please email me your historic contributions for possible inclusion!
History
Arts
History
Ways to Observe Filipino American History
Share Your Story
Your story is best told by you. Your experiences as a Filipino American in your distinct environment hold great value for validation, connection, and healing. If, like me, you lacked someone to relate to, whether your experience was positive or isolating, expressing it through art or writing can be powerful. Whatever your approach, your story is a treasure to the Filipino American community.
Curate a Panel
If you're involved in community organizing, consider organizing an event where a panel discussion can be held to share experiences ranging from youth to elders. Engage historians, artists, activists, and others.
Kamayan
Collaborate with a local Filipino restaurant chef or community member and plan a kamayan feast or food truck for your FilAm history panel event.
Host a Speaker & Support Children's Education
Invite a Speaker to present on Filipino American history and their personal narrative. Organize a competition for children to design poster boards showcasing significant dates or events in Filipino American history. Emphasize how history has influenced their journey.
Arrange a Raffle
Organize a raffle either online or at a Filipino American establishment to provide assistance to Filipino American students or entrepreneurs. Encourage participants to share their personal stories and aspirations for making a meaningful impact.
Dedicate a Wall
Allocate a section of your business, whether indoors or outdoors, for a local muralist. Encourage your FilAm community to contribute funds in support of their artistry.
Support Local Organizations
Show your support for Filipino American community groups by donating, spreading awareness about their initiatives, and engaging with their social media content through likes and comments.
Engage Filipino American Communities
Developing public engagement is essential for any movement or change within a community. One effective approach to connect with those around you involves sharing similar experiences and having a clear vision for your work and its potential impact on your community. For instance, the Medici family elevated the intellectual and artistic capital of an entire city through their financial role in funding the arts, also known as the Renaissance period. Whether you possess visionary skills and talent like a shepherd, or you are a wealthy patron, art plays a significant role in influencing the mindset and culture of a nation or community through various forms such as art, design, and performance art. Both being commissioned and commissioning others hold great value and power in this context.
Art has the potential to effectively connect with and uplift a community, enhancing each other's viewpoints, efforts, concepts, and reputation. The responsibilities of guiding, leading, coaching, safeguarding, mentoring, observing, and educating should not be underestimated. While engagement of a community may take time and finessing, a vision and goal must maintain a particular amount of careful planning and passion in order to take flight for a long term and lasting effect.
Social Media Encouragement
While we may or may not be pursuing our own project or idea, let us unite in celebration and honor the remarkable individuals who are shaping Filipino American history through their distinctive endeavors. And though it may seem small, activities such as sharing, commenting, liking, or blogging about the work of those who are actively enhancing the Filipino story is a significant step and will immensely help raise awareness about their contributions.
We can significantly amplify their influence. Therefore, let us extend our appreciation, offer our support, and disseminate their inspiring narratives far and wide!
Conclusion
Whether you're spending a cozy evening at home cooking up tasty Filipino dishes, gathering with friends, or delving into research solo, observing Filipino American History Month can be a rewarding chance to deepen your personal knowledge, uplift your community, and motivate the next generation.
Be sure to comment and share any juicy Filipino American History accounts with us so we can share too!
Hope you're having a mind blowing Filipino American History Month! ~Melissa
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