SCHUMER TO CO-SPONSOR RESOLUTION DESIGNATING OCTOBER AS ‘FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH’; APPROXIMATELY 3.4 MILLION FILIPINO AMERICANS ARE SECOND LARGEST ASIAN AMERICAN/PACIFIC ISLANDER GROUP IN UNITED STATES AND CONTRIBUTE IMMENSELY TO THE NATION
Legislation Would Recognize & Honor 400 Years of Filipino American Contributions Spanning First Recorded Presence in 1587 to Present Day
Schumer: It is Fitting and Just to Recognize the Rich History and Numerous Contributions of the Filipino Americans In The United States
U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced his support for legislation to recognize October as “Filipino American History Month.” The legislation recognizes the numerous contributions of Filipino Americans to American culture and society. Specifically, this bi-partisan legislation establishes “Filipino American History Month” as a time to promote Filipino culture and study the rich Filipino American history.
"Filipino Americans have made indelible contributions to our country: serving valiantly in every American conflict since the Civil War; spearheading social movements; and innovating in our health care and technology sectors, among many other things. They are a family-oriented and patriotic people who have long been integral parts of every community they live in. Like the other cultures and heritages we celebrate as integral parts of the American cultural mosaic, the Filipino American culture deserves its month in the sun," said Schumer, who noted his hometown of New York is home to many thousands of long-established Filipino American families and new immigrants alike.
Filipino Americans played important roles in defending America in conflicts such as World War II, the Vietnam War, and the Global War on Terror. Over 250,000 Filipinos fought in World War II, many coming home injured or passing away; by the end of the war, Filipinos had earned more than 50,000 decorations. To date, nine Filipino Americans have received the America’s highest military award, the Congressional Medal of Honor.
Historically, Filipino Americans have been very involved in advocating for workers’ rights. Labor leaders such as Philip Vera Cruz and Larry Itliong were integral to the multiethnic United Farm Workers movement that led to numerous labor reforms and advancements. Filipino Americans are also an important part of the United States workforce, especially in the field of healthcare. Additionally, they have made numerous contributions to academia and research, culture, and business.
Schumer announced his support for bipartisan legislation co-sponsored by Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) establishing “Filipino American History Month.” He explained that efforts should be made to continue promoting the study of Filipino American history and culture to include the largely-overlooked writings and teachings of minority groups that contributed to the development of American society. By noting the accomplishments and historical impact of one group, it strengthens all members of society. Schumer said that it is imperative that the United States recognizes the accomplishments of Filipino Americans.
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