2023 marks the 125th Anniversary of the end of the Spanish American War and the signing of the Treaty of Paris.  The latter event made the Philippine Islands an American colony and Filipinos became American “nationals” who could come here without passports – if their boat passage was paid.  To show the historical ramifications of both,  FANHS National presents a  Zoom Filipino American History 101 teaching class. Learn Filipino American history by the makers of this history with story tellers sharing family stories of why and when they came and interesting vignettes of parents or themselves. 

Part one will focus on the earliest immigration period: 1898 to 1946.  Part two begins with 1946 when the Philippine Islands became the Republic of the Philippine with a focus on the Post-65 immigration, and the many changes in America and Filipino American communities during the 1960s through the 1980s.

Dorothy Cordova and Emil Guillermo will serve as facilitators and hosts. In addition to stories there will be three panels.  Since the majority of Filipinos in America today came after 1965 – most of them are not aware of the history of the earliest group of immigrants.  Conversely, many from early families may not have heard the stories (good or bad) of the most recent immigrants. 

In closing both sessions, Auntie Dorothy and Emile will ask attendees to reflect on an alternative reality.   “What If…” there was no Treaty of Paris and the Filipinos revolting against Spain actually won – how would our history be today?

Registrants are encouraged to submit their responses...500 words maximum...to fanhsnow@gmail.com