Hirono Leads Bipartisan, Bicameral Resolution Recognizing Filipino American History Month

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) led her colleagues in introducing a bipartisan, bicameral resolution commemorating October as Filipino American History Month. The resolution celebrates Filipino Americans’ rich history and the many contributions they have made to the United States, including as members of the U.S. Armed Forces, officials in federal and state governments, and leaders of labor movements. A companion resolution was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Ed Case (D-HI), Bobby Scott (D-VA), and James Moylan (R-GU). “From the first Filipino contract laborers who arrived in Hawaii seeking a better life, to today’s leaders in business, healthcare, and our Armed Forces, the Filipino American community has contributed to our country’s diversity and helped to shape our national identity,” said Senator Hirono. “As the Trump regime continues to attack minority communities, celebrating diversity is especially critical. This October, I am proud to honor Filipino American culture and history, and to continue uplifting Filipino Americans voices in Hawaii and nationwide.” “I continue to be deeply honored to represent our Hawaii’s and country’s some 4.6 million Filipino Americans, and very proud to once again join my colleagues to commemorate this October as Filipino American History month,” said Congressman Ed Case, whose district is home to more Filipino Americans than any other congressional district nationwide. “In doing so, we remember and honor the sacrifices and contributions of generations past and present, the embodiment of the best of America that Filipino Americans represent, and the continued advancement and promise of future generations.” "I have the privilege of representing the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, home to the largest Filipino American population on the East Coast. Filipino Americans have made invaluable contributions to our country, so I am proud to join communities across the country in recognizing and celebrating their rich history, heritage, and enduring contributions to our nation,” said Congressman Bobby Scott. The resolution is cosponsored by Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ed Markey (D-MA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Mark Warner (D-VA), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). “Filipino Americans make tremendous contributions to our country and have helped shape our nation for the better,” said Senator Warner. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution to celebrate the rich culture, history, and contributions of Filipino Americans, and I’ll continue working to ensure Virginia remains a place where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and build a bright future.” “With over 200,000 Filipino residents, Nevada is home to one of the largest and fastest-growing Filipino American populations in the country,” said Senator Rosen. “I am proud to join this resolution, as we celebrate all the amazing accomplishments and contributions that the Filipino American community has provided to both Nevada and the rest of the country.” “California is home to the largest population of Filipino Americans in the country, a vibrant community that has helped shape our state’s history and culture,” said Senator Padilla. “Whether it’s serving valiantly in the armed forces, building small businesses, or providing life-saving medical care, Filipino Americans’ contributions to our country are immeasurable. I am proud to honor the community’s historic legacy and celebrate Filipino American History Month this month and always.” “This month, we celebrate the culture, values, and history of the Filipino American community. More than a century ago, the first Filipino sakadas came to Hawai‘i to work on the sugar plantations, laying roots for generations of Filipino families who would call Hawai‘i home. Their hard work and contributions have helped shape our communities and the Hawai‘i we know today,” said Senator Schatz. “Las Vegas is home to 200,000 Filipino Americans. They are our friends, neighbors, and community members, they are small business owners, hospitality workers, and service members, and they make up a vibrant part of Nevada’s cultural tapestry,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This month and every month, we honor the contributions that Filipinos have made to the Silver State and the country as a whole.” “From serving in our Armed Forces to leading some of America’s most important labor movements, Filipino Americans have shaped our nation’s identity for the better,” said Senator Duckworth. “During Filipino American History Month, our resolution makes it clear: Illinois and our country will always be stronger because of our Filipino American community.” “On behalf of the Filipino American National Historical Society, I extend our appreciation to Senator Mazie Hirono and the members of Congress recognizing Filipino American History Month,” said Christy Poisot, President of the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS). “May this resolution inspire us not only to celebrate our history but to preserve it, teach it, and ensure that every generation understands that Filipino American stories have always been part of America’s story.” "NaFFAA proudly supports Senator Hirono's resolution recognizing October as Filipino American History Month. From the first Filipinos who arrived on American shores in 1587, to the veterans who fought under the American flag in World War II, to the nurses and healthcare workers who kept this country alive through a pandemic, Filipino Americans have always been here — contributing, sacrificing, and building this nation alongside every other community,” said Ryan Namata, President of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFA). “Filipino American History Month is not just a celebration. It is a corrective. It is our community's reminder that our story is part of America's story, and it always has been. NaFFAA calls on all Americans to observe this month with the recognition and appreciation that four centuries of Filipino American history deserve." Senator Hirono has long advocated on behalf of the Filipino American community in Hawaii and across the country. This May, in honor of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, she partnered with the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center (APAC) to present a two-week poster exhibition exploring the migration of Filipinos to Hawaii in the early 20 th century in the Russell Senate Office building rotunda. The collaboration marked the third consecutive partnering between Senator Hirono and APAC to highlight the contributions AANHPI communities have made to the United States. Senator Hirono has introduced similar resolutions to recognize Filipino American History Month and honor Filipino Americans’ contributions to the U.S. during multiple past Congresses. Since 2013, Senator Hirono has led the introduction of the Filipino Veterans Family Reunification Act , legislation that would speed up the visa process for children of Filipino World War II veterans. Following years of advocacy from Senator Hirono and the Hawaii Congressional Delegation, in October 2017, Congress awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to the Filipino Veterans of World War II. The full text of the resolution is available here . ###