Wednesday, October 1, 2025

October is Filipino-American History Month ( FAHM)

October is Filipino-American History Month


October is Filipino American History Month (FAHM), 
a month that commemorates the history, achievements, and legacy of Filipino Americans in the United States. It was first established by the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) in 1991, with national recognition from the U.S. Congress in 2009. 


The significance of October
The month of October was chosen to mark the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the continental United States. 
  • On October 18, 1587, sailors referred to as "Luzones Indios" landed in what is now Morro Bay, California.
  • This landing predates the arrival of the Pilgrims in 1620, highlighting the long and often overlooked history of Filipinos in America.
  • October is also the birth month of Larry Itliong, a Filipino American labor leader who organized farm workers and led the Delano Grape Strike of the 1960s. 
Key themes and contributions
Filipino American History Month serves to highlight several key aspects of the community's experience: 
  • Resilience and struggle: The month acknowledges the centuries of adversity and racism Filipinos have faced, from discriminatory immigration laws to labor exploitation.
  • Labor rights: Filipino laborers played a vital role in shaping the agricultural landscape of the U.S. and in advancing the labor movement.
  • Diverse community: Today, Filipino Americans are the second-largest Asian American group in the U.S. and the third-largest ethnic group in California. The community is known for its cultural diversity, with members speaking a variety of languages in addition to Tagalog.
  • Cultural enrichment: Filipino Americans have enriched the nation's culture through their contributions to food, music, arts, and countless other fields. 
How to observe Filipino American History Month
Local and national events are held throughout October to celebrate FAHM. People can participate in a number of ways: 
  • Support Filipino American artists and businesses: Support art, music, theater, and other media that feature Filipino American creators.
  • Explore educational resources: Learn more about Filipino American history by exploring resources from organizations like the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS).
  • Engage in community events: Attend cultural festivals, food and wine events, and historical exhibits hosted by local organizations.
  • Organize community events: Plan events in schools, on college campuses, or in local community spaces to raise awareness and foster a sense of belonging. 
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_American_History_Month
  • Last year, Here at THD, we celebrated Fil-Am history with my one hour talk about the Philippines and a special Dinner featuring Filipino cuisine. For the Dinner we had pork sinigang ( soup), chicken adobo with Pinoy veggies, lumpia and rice cake for dessert and mango ice cream . San Miquel beer was made available.  
  • I have a suggestion. Let us celebrate Fil-Am History month here at THD
    • Last year, we celebrated Fil-Am history month with my one hour talk about the Philippines( served lumpia after my talk) and a special Dinner featuring Filipino cuisine. For the Dinner we had pork sinigang ( soup), chicken adobo with Pinoy veggies, steamed white rice, lumpia and rice cake for dessert and mango ice cream . San Miquel beer was made available. 
    • I really do not want to talk again, but I may be able to invite my third cousin, Mike Guingona from Daly City to give the Talk on Philippines and American relations. If not, I have other Filipino-Americans who can give the talk.
    • I also suggest a concert on Filipino music and perhaps some Folk Dancing of the Philippines,(Filipino- American Association of Contra Costa County)  
    • Personal Note: I nave communicated this suggestion to Ted Treat, Jenny Shively and Joel Torres.  Joel said he will get the recipe for adobo and will order lumpia. The date of the special dinner has not been decided.    
      Lastly, here's a  list of Celebrities with Pinoy Ancestry