Hirono, Colleagues Introduce Bill Commemorating October as Filipino-American History Month

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) joined U.S. Representatives Ed Case (D-HI), Michelle Steel (R-CA), Robert Cortez Scott (D-VA), James Moylan (R-GU), and Jill Tokuda (D-HI) in leading a bipartisan, bicameral resolution commemorating October as Filipino-American History Month. The resolution celebrates the long and distinguished history of Filipino Americans in the U.S. and the cultural and historical contributions made by Filipino American communities nationwide.

“From the first Filipino contract laborers who arrived in Hawai‘i seeking a better life, to the Filipino American leaders in business, health care, and our Armed Forces, this community has contributed to our country’s diversity and helped to shape our identity as a nation,” said Senator Hirono. “As we continue working to uplift the voices of Filipino Americans in Hawai‘i and across the country, I am proud to introduce this resolution to honor the Filipino American community’s contributions and accomplishments and celebrate their rich history and culture.”

The legislation resolves that Congress:

1. Recognizes the celebration of Filipino American History Month as –

• A testament to the advancement of Filipino Americans;
• A time to reflect on and remember the many notable contributions that Filipino Americans have made to the United States; and
• A time to renew efforts toward the research and examination of history and culture so as to provide an opportunity for all people of the United States to learn more about Filipino Americans and to appreciate the historic contributions of Filipino Americans to the United States; and
1. Urges the people of the United States to observe Filipino American History Month with appropriate programs and activities.

The resolution is cosponsored by Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV), John Fetterman (D-PA), George Helmy (D-NJ), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Patty Murray (D-WA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Mark Warner (D-VA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL). The resolution is cosponsored by more than 35 representatives in the House.

The full text of the legislation is available here.

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