Filipino American History Month:
This year, Filipino American History Month focuses on "Struggle, Resistance, Solidarity, and Resilience," a theme that highlights the indomitable spirit of the Filipino American community.
From October 1st to October 31st, the United States celebrates the history, culture, and contributions of Filipino Americans to the country. Social Justice Peer Educators Sienna Flores and Anthony Senffner alongside the Foley Library are proud to collaborate on this resource guide to provide tools for learning about Filipino American heritage and stories. This guide includes important information on Filipino American history, culture, literature, art, and more.
Here are some specific ways you can celebrate Filipino American Heritage Month and support the Filipino community:
This year, the Foley Library and Social Justice Peer Educators (SJPE) Sienna Flores & Anthony Senffner collaborate to inform the community about Filipino American history, culture, and traditions.
Social Justice Peer Educator, Sienna Flores
Sienna's role as an SJPE challenges her to facilitate discussions around social justice and actively implement the framework of intergroup dialogue in her work. SPJEs serve as the bridge for students to access resources about diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice around campus. Sienna chose Filipino American History month is important to me because she not only gets to learn more about her culture, but she gets to share her culture with the Gonzaga community. Sienna shared that "Celebrating Filipino American history month is important, but for me it’s a continuous celebration. Each day I try to learn more and immerse myself in a culture that has historically overcome many challenges. The resilient nature of Filipino and Filipino American history lives within me and every day I am grateful to share that legacy with others."
Social Justice Peer Educator
Anthony Senffner
SJPEs do their best to advocate for the unheard voices in our world through partnerships with students, staff, and departments across campus. Anthony chose to work on Filipino American history month because he takes pride in representing and sharing his culture with others, and in our current climate, representation is more important and pertinent than ever. Anthony described his enthusiasm for Filipino American History month stating, "During this time, I get to research, grow in, and present a topic I love! Celebrating who I am, and my cultural history connects me to many others who I get to share this identity with!"
Learn more about the Unity Multicultural Education Center and Social Justice Peer Educators!
Resources from PBS
Lost LA - Historic Filipino Town
A 26 minute video on how Filipino Americans in Southern California are making their heritage more visible.
PBS SoCal - Filipino Heritage Month
Collection of articles, history, and photos documenting Filipino American culture.
Short History of Filipino Immigration
A 3 minute video on Filipino immigration to America.
Online Articles