Celebrating Filipino American History Month 2024
October is Filipino History Month! As the daughter of Filipino immigrants, food, dance, and storytelling were important ways that my family celebrated our culture. As the first Filipina elected to Chicago's City Council, I'm honored and excited to share these celebrations with all of you.
I hope you'll join me, the Chicago Public Library (CPL) and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) for a series of events celebrating Filipino American history and recognizing the work of current Filipino-American community members and leaders.
Yours in community,
Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth
48th Ward Alderwoman
CELEBRATE FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH WITH US!
Our office is cosponsoring three exciting Filipino American History Month events with the Chicago Public Library. Details Below.
Panel Discussion: Celebration of Filipino Chefs
When: Tuesday, October 1 from 6-7pm
Where: Harold Washington Library (400 S State St.)
Learn more here.
Celebration with Philippine Consul General
When: Saturday, October 12 from 1-2pm
Where: Edgewater Library (6000 N Broadway)
Learn more here.
Storytime with Commissioner Chris Brown
When: Saturday, October 19 from 10:30 - 11:30am
Where: Bezazian Library (1126 W Ainslie)
Learn more here.
PANEL DISCUSSION: A CELEBRATION OF FILIPINO CHEFS (RECAP)
We kicked off Filipino American History Month with a panel discussion featuring notable Filipino Chefs at Harold Washington Library! Joe Fontelera (Boonies), Martin Tan (Cebu) and Melvin Reyes (Mano Modern Cafe) spoke about the influence of their Filipino heritage on their current culinary practices, what it means for a dish to be "authentic," and some of the dishes that make each of their restaurants unique.
The discussion was moderated by Monica Eng—a veteran, award-winning Chicago journalist who has covered food in Chicago for four decades—and introduced by CPL Commissioner Chris Brown who spoke briefly about his own Filipino heritage. You can view a recording of the discussion here.
FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH READING LISTS FROM CPL
Filipino American History Month is the perfect time to explore literary works by Filipino and Filipino American authors. See a list of recommended reading for kids here. See a recommeded reading list for teens here.
EVENTS FROM THE FILIPINO AMERICAN NATIONAL HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Looking for more events celebrating Filipino American History Month? The Greater Chicago Chapter of the Filipino American National Historical Society has compiled a list here which includes the above-mentioned library events, a production of The Great Filipino Songbook, and more!
