CAPAC Members Celebrate Filipino American History Month
Washington, DC –In recognition of Filipino American History Month, which begins today and lasts throughout the month of October, Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements:
Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), CAPAC Chair:
“With a rich history of over 400 years in the United States, Filipino Americans have made vital economic, cultural, and social contributions to our society. They are the educators, health care providers, military service men and women, entrepreneurs, civic leaders, and hardworking Americans that have shaped the growth of our great nation. October is an important time for us to learn more about the Filipino American community, their roots and success, and their place in America’s diverse history and vibrant future. It is also an important time to come together and urge our government to grant Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for the Philippines in wake of the devastation of Typhoon Haiyan, which struck the Philippines last year. As we celebrate the contributions of Filipino Americans, I will continue to fight for TPS so that affected individuals are granted the relief that they deserve.”
Congressman Mike Honda (CA-17), CAPAC Chair Emeritus:
“Today marks the first day of Filipino-American History Month, an opportunity to spotlight the lasting contributions Filipinos and Filipino-Americans have made towards our country’s history. This month gives us a chance to remember the sacrifices that Filipinos have made in order to obtain the American dream. During the 1920s and 1930s, the first major wave of Filipino immigrants, known as the ‘Manongs,’ came to America to work physically intensive jobs. They quickly developed a reputation of being hard working people. Faced with adversity, the Manongs, along with other immigrant farmworkers, started a grassroots movement that would prove successful in increasing the insufficient wages of over 10,000 farmhands. Filipinos and Filipino-Americans made great sacrifices for this nation, when approximately 250,000 of them signed up to fight alongside American troops during World War II. The cooperation of the Filipino people was strategically pivotal during the war. Let us take the time to recognize and celebrate these sacrifices Filipinos made, along with the contributions they have and are continuing to make today, in labor rights, the development of businesses, and the advancement of the health field, service industry, and armed forces.”
Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02):
“In Hawai‘i, Filipino Americans have made tremendous contributions to our island communities. As one of the largest ethnic groups in my home state, they represent a storied history beginning with the first sakadas who came to Hawai‘i looking for work on our sugar plantations and in the pineapple fields. Today they are leaders in business, public service, and in our Armed Forces. As we celebrate Filipino American History Month, we honor and recognize the positive impacts the Filipino community has had in Hawai‘i and across the United States.”
Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06):
“I’m proud to join the Filipino American community in New York and across America in celebrating Filipino American History Month. This month, we not only celebrate the accomplishments and achievements of Filipino Americans, but we commemorate the outstanding culture and heritage of the entire Filipino American community. Americans of Filipino descent contribute so much to our nation, and continue to make many positive impacts on our society. I’m privileged to honor the culture and traditions of all Filipino Americans during this important, month-long celebration.”
Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03):
“As we celebrate Filipino American History Month, we reflect on the profound impact that both the country of the Philippines and Filipino Americans here in the United States have had on the fabric of our society. There are over 3 million Americans of Filipino ancestry in the United States today, and I am proud to say that I am one of them. Filipino Americans have contributed to American life and culture in countless ways. Roughly 250,000 Filipino soldiers and guerrilla fighters served under or alongside United States armed forces during World War II, and Filipino Americans across the country are leaders in their fields. From science to the arts, there are many Filipino Americans across the country serving as leaders in their communities. This month gives us the opportunity to promote Filipino culture, celebrate our extraordinary diversity as a country, and provide us a time to consider the numerous contributions that Filipino Americans have made to our country.”
Congresswoman Susan Davis (CA-53):
“America has not only benefited culturally and economically from the contributions of Filipino Americans, but they have always been willing to join the fight to protect our freedoms. As we honor the contributions of Filipino Americans this month, let’s also honor the sacrifice that Filipino veterans have made on our behalf by ensuring they get the full veterans benefits they have earned.”
Congressman Eric Swalwell (CA-15):
“I join in celebrating Filipino American History Month and the countless contributions Filipino Americans have made to our society in the East Bay and across the country. When Typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines just last year, I was particularly moved by the incredible response by the Filipino American community to help the country recover from that terrible storm. I was honored to do my part in the effort to encourage Americans to donate to the relief effort by sponsoring the Philippines Charitable Giving Assistance Act, which was signed into law by the President.”
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The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and Members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.