Filipino American History Month

October is Filipino American History Month—a month during which we commemorate the arrival of Filipinos in the U.S and celebrate their influence, impact, and contributions over time to American culture. BOLD’s own Jessica Black shares her perspective on what Filipino American History Month means to her.

What does Filipino American History Month mean to you?

As a first-generation Filipina American, this month is a time for me to reflect on my own personal family history here in America. Growing up, my parents told my sister and me countless stories about their immigration here during the 1960s. At a very young age, my parents were the first of their families to leave the Philippines in search of the “American Dream.” They said goodbye to their parents, siblings, and friends, not knowing if they would ever see them again. I recently found my mother’s red plaid 1960s McCall luggage from her first journey here to the U.S. from the Philippines when I was cleaning out my childhood home this past summer. Seeing and touching that bag gave me the chills, as it symbolized her single act of immense bravery that changed the story of her life forever. Because of my parents and what they did, I will be eternally grateful for the life and family I have today. ??

What does being Filipina American mean to you?

My Filipina American experience is far from perfect and has changed so much over the years. When I was young, I idolized American culture and tried to assimilate as much as I could, even often suppressing my Filipina identity in situations where I felt different. From the food I ate to the clothes I wore, I remember wanting so desperately to be “normal.” As I got older, I quickly learned how incredibly beautiful and dynamic Filipino culture is. I met some amazing people and had amazing experiences that taught me to embrace the cultural differences that once made me feel like I didn’t belong. Now I welcome every opportunity to celebrate the uniqueness that being Filipina American brings and I look for moments to share my experiences with others both personally and professionally. In my home, I started to cook a few Filipino dishes with my husband that remind me of my childhood (Pancit, Lumpia, Sisig, and Caldereta… all so good!) so that I could start to pass down some of my favorite food traditions down to my half-Filipina American daughters.

What do you love most about Filipino culture?

I love that the Filipino community revolves around food, family, and joy (as well as basketball, karaoke, Jo Koy and all things Manny Pacquaio, of course). If you ask someone what Filipinos are like, they’ll probably say we are always smiling. It’s true. Even if we are going through a difficult time, we find a way to celebrate the good things in life. If you know me, you know this is 100% true.

What do you feel is distinct about Filipino culture?

Filipinos are all about family. Whether you are part of the immediate family or belong to the third or fourth generation, you are always treated as a family member. Within minutes of meeting us, you’ll probably even be given a Filipino nickname like Tito, Tita, Kuya, or Ate. In my life, even my closest of friends are considered family, too.

What do you feel everyone should know about Filipino culture?

Filipinos are truly an amazing community of people. They are resilient, respectful, courageous, and loyal. Small but mighty. I’d highly recommend that if you don’t already have one, you find a Filipino friend or two to have in your corner. ????

I encourage everyone (Filipino or not) to learn or experience something new about the Filipino culture in honor of Filipino American History Month. At the very least, try the food! Message me for recommendations. Once you do, you’ll hopefully grow to enjoy and love Filipino culture as much as I proudly do.