The Washburn Student Government Association recognized October as Filipino-American History Month. This month celebrates the first arrival of Filipinos into the United States, which occurred Oct. 18, 1587. It also celebrates the historical and cultural legacy of Filipino-Americans.
Filipinos have fought for their independence during both the Spanish-American War and the Philippine-American War. On July 4, 1946, the United States recognized the Philippines as an independent nation with the signing of the Treaty of Manila. Over time, immigration laws made it possible for more Filipino families to move to the United States.
DeMarques Hinds, WSGA diversity, equity and inclusion director, believes that this month can give people a chance to get to know more Filipino-Americans around them.
“It’s good to give a spotlight on this specific group because a lot of Asian-Americans are usually grouped together, and bringing awareness to Filipinos specifically would just help us be more aware of what we are surrounded by,” Hinds said.
Hinds also wished that there was more Filipino-American representation and involvement on campus, but encouraged students who are facing any issues to contact WSGA.
“It’d be easier if they had a student organization, but I understand with the lack of students, they probably couldn’t maintain that for very long because they’d [eventually] graduate, and then there’s no guarantee that more Filipino-American students are gonna come in, or that they’d even be interested in continuing an organization like that,” Hinds said.
A resolution recognizing October as Filipino-American History Month was written by Deondre Morris, chairperson for the WSGA diversity, equity and inclusion committee. He wants more Filipino-American students to be recognized on campus since there is a lack of participation in most multicultural organizations.
“I want [Filipino-Americans] to be aware of any clubs we may have on campus, or any activities we may have on campus because I don’t know if you’ve heard of the Native American Club, but it was shut down because it had little to no participation. I don’t want another incident of that on this campus specifically,” Morris said.
Ways to celebrate and raise awareness of Filipino-American History Month are to attend cultural events and organizations, support Filipino-American artists such as Bruno Mars and H.E.R., advocate for more Filipino-American courses in classrooms and reflect on ways to create a more inclusive future.
WSGA has posted its resolution, recognizing October as Filipino-American History Month. You can learn more about Filipino-American History Month at this website.
Edited by Morgan Albrecht and Stuti Khadka
