PHOTOS & VIDEO: Hirono Meets with Filipino Curriculum Project Student Leaders

HONOLULU, HI – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) met with student leaders of the Filipino Curriculum Project to discuss the project’s achievements and plans for the future. The Filipino Curriculum Project is working to create an elective course within the Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE) that tells the history and contributions of Filipinos in Hawaii.

“Hawaii’s rich diversity is central to our state’s history and culture, and it’s important that our keiki learn about all of the communities that comprise our unique state,” said Senator Hirono. “The Filipino community has made significant contributions in areas such as health care, education, the arts, business, military service, and more in Hawaii and across the country. Developing a curriculum that celebrates these contributions, as well as the rich history and culture of the Filipino community is long overdue. The students leading the Filipino Curriculum Project are a testament to the drive and dedication of the next generation, and I’m very encouraged by what they’re doing. I’ve asked for their feedback on my bill to expand AAPI history in our schools, and I look forward to continuing our dialogue.”

The Filipino Curriculum Project is a collaboration between Hawaii students from public and private schools. The curriculum the group is developing will have four components: (1) Ethnic Identity; (2) Cultural Connection; (3) Historical Context; and (4) Filipinos in Hawaii. Thus far, the group has participated in curriculum workshops, met with leadership from the HIDOE, and engaged with State legislators to pass House Resolution 50 to implement a Filipino history, culture, and identity social studies course for high school students.

Senator Hirono has long advocated on behalf of Asian Pacific Islander American communities in Hawaii, the U.S., and Pacific Island nations and territories. In May, she introduced a bill to promote the teaching of Asian Pacific American history for high school students and teachers who enroll in the U.S. Department of Education’s American History and Civics Academies programs. Senator Hirono also brought legislation to the Senator floor, that was signed into law by President Biden, establishing a commission to study the creation of a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture. Additionally, for the last several years, she has led the Senate resolution recognizing May as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. 

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