Celebrating Filipino American History Month in San Antonio with Mayor Ron Nirenberg's Proclamation

Introduction:

Filipino American History Month is a time to celebrate the rich history and contributions of Filipino Americans to our society. This October, the City of San Antonio, Texas, is joining hands with our sister city of Baguio to commemorate this significant occasion. We are honored to share with you the official proclamation from Mayor Ron Nirenberg, highlighting the importance of this month and recognizing the remarkable achievements of Filipino Americans throughout history.

Proclamation Highlights:

A Rich Heritage:

Mayor Nirenberg's proclamation reminds us that Filipino Americans make up one of the largest Asian American ethnic groups in the United States today. It also takes us back to the 16th century when Filipinos first arrived at Morro Bay, California, long before the founding of our nation in 1776.

Honoring Sacrifices:

In October, we pay tribute to the more than 260,000 Filipino and Filipino Americans who courageously served under the American flag during World War II. Today, over 25,000 Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders continue this legacy by proudly serving in our armed forces.

The 2023 Theme:

This year's theme, "1898: Recognizing 125 Years of Philippine-American History," acknowledges the significance of the Treaty of Paris, signed by Spain and the United States. This treaty led to the annexation of the Philippines by the United States and provided a pathway to America for Filipino nationals.

Trailblazers and Leaders:

The proclamation also celebrates the achievements of trailblazing Filipino Americans, such as civil rights leader Larry Itliong. For over two decades, Itliong fought tirelessly for those without a voice, playing a pivotal role in advancing farmworkers' rights and social justice for the Filipino farm labor movement. He co-founded the United Farm Workers Union and left an indelible mark on history.

Local Contributions:

Mayor Nirenberg acknowledges the local impact of Filipino Americans, including the establishment of youth groups like the Brandeis High School Barkadas Filipino Club and the creation of the San Antonio chapter of the Filipino American National Historical Society.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Mayor Ron Nirenberg's proclamation marks October 2023 as "Filipino American History Month" in San Antonio, Texas. It serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and the significant contributions of Filipino Americans that have paved the way for future generations.

We invite you to join us in celebrating this important month and stay tuned for exciting events and activities planned throughout October. Let's come together to honor Filipino American history and culture, showcasing the diverse tapestry that makes up our great nation. #FilAmHistoryMonth #SanAntonioCelebrates