What Is Filipino American History Month?
On October 18, 1587, a Spanish trade ship sailed into Morro Bay, California. The landing party included Filipinos, then known as "Luzones Indios." To commemorate their arrival, in October we celebrate Filipino American History Month!
History
The Philippines was a U.S. territory from 1898 to 1946. During this time, Filipinos were free to immigrate to the United States. Although Filipinos were U.S. nationals, they faced severe discrimination. In 1930, a mob attacked Filipinos in Watsonville, California. In 1933, California passed a law prohibiting Filipinos from entering interracial marriages.
Despite this discrimination, over 250,000 Filipino soldiers fought for the U.S. army in World War II. When they returned home, these Filipino veterans were denied their military benefits. In 2009, registered Filipino WWII veterans were given one-time payments of up to $15,000. They were also awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2017. To this day, however, many have still never received any benefits or rewards for their service.
Filipinos continued to fight for equality through the mid-20th century. In 1965, Larry Itliong rallied Filipino farmworkers to go on strike. He then encouraged Mexican farmworkers to join them. This resulted in the pivotal Delano Farmworkers Grape Strike.
Present Day
Today, Filipinos are the third largest Asian ethnic group in the United States. Filipino Americans have served in the U.S. government. This includes California’s current Attorney General, Rob Bonta. They’re also helping shape American media and culture. Over 50 million people follow Bretman Rock on various social media platforms. You'll know Lea Salonga as the singing voice of Princess Jasmine and Mulan.
Library Resources
To celebrate Filipino American history and culture, SCCLD offers books, movies, and more. Join us in recognizing the enduring legacy and influence of Filipino Americans!
Language Learning
Do you want to learn Tagalog? We have language learning books, audiobooks, and video lessons to help you!
Books
The library also offers books written in the Tagalog language.
Movies
Check out our collection of Blu-Rays and DVDs in Tagalog!
With your library card, you can also stream Filipino movies on Kanopy.
October Programs
Cupertino
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Kira Hooks Music Performance
Sunday October 4 @ 4pm
Gilroy
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Children’s Craft Program: Create Your Own Jeepney
Wednesday, October 14 @ 3pm - Kira Hooks Music Performance
Sunday October 18 @ 2pm
Los Altos
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Kira Hooks Music Performance
Saturday October 3 @ 2pm
Morgan Hill
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Paint Party Inspired by Pacita Abad
Saturday October 24 @ 10:30 am
Saratoga
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Kira Hooks Music Performance
Saturday October 10 @ 2pm
