Us Congress Senate Bill SR382

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/28/23
• Refer: 9/28/23

Caption

A resolution recognizing the month of October 2023 as Filipino American History Month and celebrating the history and culture of Filipino Americans and their immense contributions to the United States.

Summary

SR382 is a resolution recognizing October 2023 as Filipino American History Month, celebrating the significant contributions of Filipino Americans to the United States. This resolution serves to highlight the rich history and cultural contributions of the Filipino American community, marking its importance in various fields such as healthcare, arts, and politics. It emphasizes the role that Filipino Americans have played throughout U.S. history, with events dating back to the first documented presence of Filipinos in the continental United States in 1587, and acknowledges milestones such as the establishment of the first permanent Filipino settlement in St. Malo, Louisiana in 1763. The resolution asserts that the Filipino American community is an integral part of the broader multicultural fabric of American society, being the third largest Asian American and Pacific Islander group in the country, with a current population of approximately 4.5 million. This growth underscores the community's increasing significance and influence within the United States, particularly from 2000 to 2019, during which the Filipino American population grew by 78 percent in various states. One notable aspect of the resolution is its tribute to the sacrifices and contributions of Filipino Americans in the military, particularly highlighting over 250,000 Filipinos who served during World War II. This acknowledgment of service is part of a broader recognition of Filipino veterans who faced historical injustices, including issues surrounding veteran benefits that were reversed post-war. The resolution calls for renewed efforts to address these historical grievances while also encouraging educational engagement with Filipino American history. The resolution advocates for the recognition of Filipino American History Month as a time for all Americans to learn about and appreciate the Filipino American legacy, thus fostering greater cultural understanding and respect. It encourages communities to observe this month through educational programs and activities that showcase Filipino heritage, thereby promoting inclusivity and understanding across diverse populations.