Filipino American History Month

Filipino American History Month (FAHM) is celebrated in the United States every October. It’s a month-long observance to honor the history, contributions, and heritage of Filipino Americans.

History of Filipino American History Month

Filipino American History Month was established by the Filipino American National Historical Society in 1992. October was chosen because it coincides with the arrival of the first documented Filipinos in what is now the continental United States (in Morro Bay, California) on October 18, 1587, and it is also the birthday month of some prominent Filipino-American figures like Larry Itliong.

Over the years, the observance has grown. In 2009, the U.S. Congress officially recognized October as Filipino American History Month. Since then, communities, schools, cultural institutions, and organizations have used this month to teach, celebrate, and reflect upon the Filipino American experience.

Why is Filipino American History Month important?

This month is important because it brings attention to stories that are often underrepresented in mainstream narratives. Filipino Americans have made significant contributions in many fields—labor movements, arts, medicine, civic life, and culture—and FAHM gives space to share those tales, the struggles, the successes, and the ways Filipino Americans have shaped the United States.

Also, FAHM helps maintain cultural identity across generations. For children and young people of Filipino descent, knowing their history, knowing where their families came from, the journeys, the challenges, and the pride—this strengthens connection, belonging, and sense of self. It’s more than celebration; it’s about understanding, remembering, and passing on legacy.

Some things many people find meaningful:

• honoring Filipino American veterans and pioneers
• exploring arts, music, literature made by Filipino Americans
• engaging with community stories of immigration, resilience, identity
• celebrating Filipino cultural traditions but also the modern experiences
• supporting Filipino-owned businesses and community leaders

How to Celebrate Filipino American History Month

There are lots of ways to observe this month meaningfully. One is through education—schools or community groups can hold events, lectures, or panels about Filipino-American history, telling personal stories, reading books, showing documentaries.

Another is cultural celebration: food, music, dance performances, art exhibits that showcase Filipino heritage. Also supporting local Filipino-owned businesses, sharing Filipino art or literature. Using social media to amplify voices in the Filipino American community can also make a difference.

Here are simple ideas:

• read a book or watch a movie about Filipino-American history
• try Filipino recipes or eat at a Filipino restaurant and share with others
• attend or organize a local event or talk on Filipino contributions
• share stories about your family or Filipino-American friends
• follow or support Filipino-American artists, writers, creators

Filipino American History Month Dates Table