RECOGNIZING OCTOBER AS FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH
OCTOBER 5, 2024
WHERAS, four million Filipino Americans reside in the United States, comprising approximately
1.2% of the country’s population, and nearly one in seven immigrants from Asia is from the Philippines; and
WHEREAS, 43.4% of South San Francisco residents identify as Asian, and approximately 14% of households speak Filipino at home; and
WHEREAS, Filipino American presence dates back to the earliest documented settlement on October 18, 1587 when mariners called “Luzones indios” under Spanish command landed in Morrow Bay, California; and
WHEREAS, the Philippines is the fourth most common country of origin for immigrants to the United States, after Mexico, India and China; and
WHEREAS, in 2009, after years of advocacy by individuals and organizations, the United States Congress recognized the contributions and sacrifices made by the Filipino Community and recognized October as Filipino American History Month; and
WHEREAS, Filipino Americans have a long and proud history of service in the United States military, with many serving in the armed forces of the United States during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War; and
WHEREAS, the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Medal Act was unanimously passed by Congress and was signed into law in December 2016; and WHEREAS, in the month of October, we honor the history, pursuits, accomplishments and legacy of Filipinos in the United States who have enriched our communities through their work and contributions in the armed forces, local, state, and national government, and as scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, accountants, teachers, lawyers, nurses, doctors and more, as well as their involvement in civic and community activities; and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to instill in our youth the importance of education, history and ethnicity in creating eminent role models, in establishing a proud cultural identity, and producing exceptional citizens of this nation; and
WHEREAS, the City of South San Francisco is honored to celebrate Filipino American History Month along with the Filipino American National Historical Society who proudly uphold this year’s theme of Struggle, Resistance, Solidarity, and Resilience.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that on October 5, 2024, the City Council of the City of South San Francisco does hereby proclaim October 2024 as Filipino American History Month and encourages all residents of our community to join us in celebrating this special month.
James Coleman, Mayor
Eddie Flores, Vice Mayor
Mark Addiego, Councilmember
Mark Nagales, Councilmember
Buenaflor Nicolas, Councilmember
Dated: October 5, 2024