Celebrating Filipino culture at USD

Recognizing an important community at USD

Rachel Cepe / Contributor / The USD Vista

It’s the start of Filipino American History month, which holds a sentimental value to many, as San Diego is home to one of the largest Filipino communities in the nation, according to the Pew Research Center. From the colonization of the Philippines to becoming allies with one another, the Philippines and the United States have been tied together by history since the 1900’s. Filipinos make up some of the largest numbers of U.S. immigrants since the earliest immigration occurred in the late 19th century as stated by the Migration Policy Institute. 

No matter what, it’s obvious that Filipinos have always played an important role in the development of our country. With October being officially recognized as Filipino American History Month, it gives people the opportunity to celebrate the rich culture, history, and accomplishments of the Filipino- American people. 

Filipino Americans, as well as other people of color, are often left out of the narrative when it comes to the stories found in history books. 

“In history books, Filipinos are often overlooked,” first-year, Allister Quizon, stated. “It’s a very eurocentric view of the world, and it’s important we recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of Filipinos and Filipino Americans before us so we can have those people to look up to.”

Quizon’s childhood contributed to his perspective on his heritage, as well.

“Growing up, there weren’t any major Filipino characters in the world that I was knowledgeable about,” Quizon commented. 

For most, Manny Pacquiao was the only Filipino figure represented in the media. Although one is better than none, Filipinos don’t have as many figures to look up to.

Considering USD is a predominantly white institution (PWI), with 47.2% of the current enrollment for both undergraduate and graduate being white, it can make fitting in and transitioning into college more difficult for those who do not identify as white. 

Despite the demographics at USD, there is still a strong presence of the Filipino community and culture, which stems from the United Front Multicultural Commons (UFMC) and organizations like the Filipino Ugnayan Student Organization (FUSO). 

“It can feel a little bit isolating especially being in a PWI,” Quizon said. “I think being a part of FUSO and hanging out in the United Front is really comforting because I know those people not only share the same culture but a similar experience being at USD.” 

Similarly, USD senior, Eden Concepcion, who is also the Vice President Internal for FUSO, expressed the lack of representation that comes with being in a cultural club. 

“In general, the cultural clubs know about each other, but I feel other students outside the UFMC don’t recognize us that much because we are kind of tucked away in that corner of the SLP,” Concepcion noted. 

Promoting FUSO during Filipino American History month can allow for other students to maintain an important relationship with their culture, which can sometimes be challenging. 

Western culture is such a huge influence when growing up in America that the desire to “fit in” often results in the neglection of one’s own culture. Promoting FUSO also allows students to find community with those that come from a similar background, or for those who want to belong to a place to feel welcome no matter what. 

“Family is super important in Filipino culture,” Concepcion said. “I think as Filipinos we are always taught to be inclusive.” 

Celebrating this month gives Filipino Americans the opportunity to start connecting with each other. 

The empowering ideals of family and inclusion translate well into USD and FUSO because that’s what getting to know a culture is all about; immersing yourself in it in order to learn more about it. 

In the midst of celebrating Filipino Americans, there are many opportunities outside and inside of campus for students to engage. For example, FUSO is holding “Palarong Pinoy” on Oct. 23; it derives from “Larong Pinoy” which means “games of our heritage.” During this event, participants will be able to play traditional Filipino games at the Valley Field. 

However, the festivities do not stop once October is over; FUSO’s “Kamayan night” on Nov. 13 is open to the public and will give everyone a chance to indulge in the cuisine and the sight of Filipino dance. 

Outside of campus, there are events such as Filipino film screenings on Oct. 22 at the La Jolla/Riford Library. 

There is also storytelling in Tagalog, the Filipino language, at Mira Mesa Community Park on Oct. 20. 

Acknowledging Filipino American History month, along with the various other important months recognizing other cultures, is crucial to fostering a more inclusive community at USD. It can create a more positive experience for all students, where everyone shares their different perspectives with one another.