Mixed Bag Monday

Here's a compiled collection of stories that peaked my interest over the last week, with a little of my own comments on the significance of the stories.

By Staff Sgt. Teddy Wade, via Wikimedia Commons

Jessica Sanchez sings during the National Memorial Day concert in Washington D.C., 2012.

Jessica Sanchez Performs on American Idol Season Finale - Exposure is important for the Fil-Am community in the US, especially when it has been so easy for Fil-Am narratives to be written out of history and current events. Hardly anyone knows about the other half of the labor strikes of the UFW were Filipinos. While I may not agree with all of Jessica’s mannerisms, I believe any positive exposure that makes people go “Wow, where did this person come from?” And maybe ask a few questions about the person’s background, especially if they are Fil-Am, helps introduce a different perspective to people who otherwise may not know about the Fil-Am communities across the country. This, coupled with the growing exposure on television, help recover and incorporate the Fil-Am experience into the American experience.

By yeowatzup from Katlenburg-Lindau, Germany (Sunset, Bohol) via Wikimedia Commons

Sunset in Bohol

State of calamity declared in Bohol Due to Drought/ El Nino - The drought here in California has been quite disruptive to nearly all areas of life, from agriculture to commerce and the daily habits of its residents. While it seems like the new norm is water conservation (it’s not a bad thing!), I think it is important for people in the US to remember that global climate change is not limited to one or two nations, but is truly a GLOBAL condition that needs to be examined by all governments, collectively. At times, when agriculture sustains people with very tight margins for failure, it is all the more important for everyone to do what they can. While the California Drought may not have the same effect as it does for the people in PI, where “more than 40,000 farmers in 27 towns in Bohol, known as the rice bowl of Central Visayas, are facing hunger and loss of income,” its effects are seen in the reservoirs and lakes across the state.

Watch Policeman Teach A Homeless Girl To Play Hopscotch to Pass the Time - Sometimes it is too easy to see the negative in life, especially when those who are sworn to protect and serve display pockets of deplorable behavior, and outright murder, on specific ethnic populations. This is a short video about a non-violent experience with a police officer. These kinds of scenes are played out across the country all the time, but are rarely reported in mainstream media. This needs to change, and I watch videos like this and remember that, while not EVERYONE acts as they should, the police officers are, in general, positive presences that do the best they can seeing the roughest parts of our society everyday.

CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=865798

Chicken Adobo with Rice and Beans

Edible Cutlery - Conservation and light consumption has always been an important part of my outlook on life. This novel kind of solution to overconsumption and unthinking waste displays the ingenuity and value in finding plausible solutions for a growing global population. Particularly in places like the US, Japan and India, where utensils are used and disposed of heavily, these kinds of potential answers helps to reduce the burden on the environment and on production of these disposable products.

By Alexander Klimov at de.wikipedia (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The Guy Fawkes Mask has become a common representation of the Anonymous group

Voter Data Breach - I sometimes forget that everything placed on the Internet, or transported through the Internet, has the potential for being stolen or accessed by unwanted parties. In this case, the hacker cooperative Anonymous broke into the Philippine Commission on Elections website and reported on just how easy it was to access sensitive information. It appeared that some voter information was saved in a simple text file. “The breach contains the records of 1.3m overseas Philippines voters, including their passport details; it also includes 15.8m fingerprints,” according to the article. On a wider scale, this points to the fact that whenever information is given freely to another entity, be it a private company or a public office, it has the potential to be stolen. We all have to be careful with the data we share, and demand stronger protections from businesses and organizations that legitimately access and use our information in conducting their affairs.

Gun Battle Against Extremists - The global community must realize that the threat of extremism is not isolated to countries in “the West.” The threat of extremist behavior is not an East-West dichotomy, but a global phenomenon that points to the problems of HUMAN civilization. Here, in the volatile southern region of Mindanao, Philippines, Western Mindanao Command soldiers clashed with Aby Sayyaf Group extremist soldiers, the results being 18 dead government troops and 5 casualties on Abu Sayyaf forces. While it has been popular among politicians in the US to claim that extremists like these are conducting a religious holy war against Christianity and “the West” because they hate our culture and our freedoms, I would argue it is far more a symptom of the great global disparity in access to economic and basic, fundamental needs, but also the ongoing negative impact of the United States’ involvement in other countries. These extremist activities are far more inspired by the political and economic interests of the leadership, who layer their rhetoric with religious absolution for the consumption of the undereducated soldiers who ACTUALLY fight their battles. I believe education and understanding would go a long way in lessening the appeal of extremism for many underrepresented populations. If the religious extremist groups are the only ones who seemingly offer their family a roof and regular meals, how could a soldier refuse?

Hapless Historian Highlights!

Reworking the Writing

By Abadvibes via Wikimedia Commons

“Antonio Abad”

Here’s What’s Coming Up

In light of recent changes in my goals, I’m refocusing this space to highlight Fil-Am history, US history and my own reflections on these topics. Posts will come each Monday. This space will focus across the spectrum on articles, film and cuisine experiences I find interesting, and ones that may interest a few people who visit this blog.

Please let me know what you’d like to see in the coming weeks, as I am always looking for your perspectives!

In the meantime, here’s a few highlights from the past year or so. These are moments I liked and ones you might want to revisit. Feel free to comment or message me if you’d like to know more! Thank you for your time and continued support.

Hungry History Highlights

Hungry History: Filipino Arroz Caldo!! (Lugaw)

This is a lovely, savory rice porridge that I was introduced to in graduate school. It comes in powdered instant versions, but is not complicated to make with a good recipe. Like many Filipino recipes, this seems to be one where each family has their version. The key is good quality ingredients and knowing where you need to make adjustments for your family’s needs. Water and chicken broth can be mixed to adjust the sodium levels.

Hungry History: Sandwiches!!

I was always curious where the word “sandwich” came from, as I was curious about a number of words we use (did you know the English “typhoon” has Chinese and Persian origins?). Additionally, I was wondering about the short history of something as popular as the American sandwich, which has a place in nearly all of my generation’s sack lunches (does anyone use sacks anymore?). I also made a really yummy sandwich that inspired this post, pictured!

Hungry History: Spam Musubi!!

Surprisingly, I’d never had these Hawaiian specialities, even after my short trip to the Islands. I had always thought Spam was a mystery meat of questionable quality, but was happy to find it can be used to make something really yummy!

Movie Monday Highlights

Movie Monday: "The Patriot," a film by Roland Emmerich

Admittedly liberal in historical accuracy and heavy on emotional appeal, the star power of Mel Gibson, coupled with the patriotic (pun intended) narrative, makes the awareness of this film no surprise. While it goes out of its way to vilify the British, and does look favorably on the Rebels, it does reflect many ideals that our nation, including the belief than anyone, regardless of skin color, has an opportunity (albeit unequally) to make something of themselves. It is also entertaining as one of my “guilty” history-related pleasures.

Movie Monday: "The Mountain Thief," a film by Gerry Balasta, 2010

This was an eye-opening film for me, particularly as it relates to the Philippines. While I had come across poverty in my graduate research before, I don’t believe many films capture the sheer gap between haves and have nots as this one. It is undeniably real in its portrayals, and I’m so thankful it had English subtitles. As I mention in the review, I believe this film “should be required viewing for all college students, ‘first world’ citizens worldwide, and professed religious individuals who would seek to know and better the world,” so everyone can understand the side effects of political and economic inequality.

Proud Moment!

My Winning Submission: EDSA/People Power Revolution Essay Writing Contest

I’ve already posted this multiple times, so please excuse me, but it still stands as one of my more proud recent moments while working on this blog. The Bay Area Fil-Am community members were very welcoming and had nothing but positive things to say about my submission. I was thankful to share the stage with several key Fil-Am and Filipino community members, as well as many talented writers and artists from music and poetry. I’ve made professional connections and reconnected a little with my Filipino and Fil-Am heritage. Thank you all so much!

Here’s to the Future

I am excited to move forward with my blog project, and for the topics and writings I have in the works. I want to thank you for your ongoing support, please click “Like” and keep in touch on Facebook to help guide where the content goes from here. Thank you so much for your ongoing support!

Digging the Dinardaraan!

Digging the Dinardaraan (Dinuguan)

Ways I Reconnected With My Pinoy Heritage

Many second through fourth generation young people of mixed heritage have a challenging task of balancing their American (or majority) culture with their family or ancestral culture. Particularly if you are like me. My mom and her brothers are very Americanized and I was too young to ask those deeper questions of my Ilocano, elderly grandfather and very private grandmother (both since passed). Without the stories of the past, of my grandparents’ lives in the Philippines and their eventual immigration to the United States, I can only piece together bits of their unique story. As it stands, my adult self feels very ignorant of my Filipino heritage but I deeply wish to to learn where I can. While I have a long way to go, here are a few ways I have begun reconnecting with pieces of my cultural heritage.

Extended Family Members

Talk to and connect to any and all extended family members you can! Filipino families are “notorious” for having numerous cousins, uncles, aunts, lolos, lolas and other family friends who are more than happy to share their experiences with you. In Filipino cultures, “it takes a village” takes on a whole new meaning. If you can’t visit them outright, reach out by calling and talking with them, sending them an email, connecting via social media or taking them out to coffee. You can start a private “family” group on Facebook, then invite your extended family to participate by sharing stories or photos, etc. Any way you can find to ask about your family heritage will help you discover new things.

Read!

The Internet is not just for cat videos ( they are cute, aren’t they?)! It can be a fantastic source of nearly unlimited information on just about any culture present, past (or future??) for you to learn. Outside the Internet, books, magazines, articles, blog posts, newspapers and radio broadcasts abound. Pretty much anything that might give you insight into your target culture is fair game. Better if you understand one or more of your target culture’s languages, as a variety of media gives a fantastic insight not only into past events, but current events that may be missed in mainstream American media. Focus on things you find interesting, such as dance or sports. Not only will you be more likely to stick with it when your research hits a roadblock, but you’ll be able to strike up conversations with others about topics you’re both passionate about, a sure way to connect even more!

Participate!

Social Media

Related to connecting with extended family, take a look at social media. Seek out people, places and organizations on Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter and others related to your target culture. I have personally expanded my cultural network to include the Philippine American Writers and Artists, Inc (PAWA), the Filipino American National Historical Society, and the Kalesa Traveler and Positive Filipino magazines. This has resulted in both fantastic networking opportunities and chances to learn more about the Filipino diaspora across the United States.

By Maki R. (Own work) via Wikimedia Commons

EDSA People Power Monument, Philippines: Getting involved in celebratory events and learning about your heritage through study is one of the best ways to reconnect

Social events and contests

Once you’ve found a variety of interesting organizations through social media, keep up to date on potential contests and events in which to participate and contribute. It is a rare organization that will deny an interested volunteer a chance to participate! I wrote a submission for the EDSA/People Power Revolution Essay Contest, sponsored by PAWA, Inc, and won! I met many awesome people from the Fil-Am community in the Bay Area I otherwise would never have met.

Language learning clubs

Language is a fantastic way to connect with your heritage, as it gives valuable insight into so many aspects of the culture. Words used for food, animals, ways of life, professions, religion, etc are all communicated through language, and provides a door to media and music that might otherwise be closed. You will also meet others interested in the same thing as you, which will make the journey that much more enjoyable. Make sure to be patient and try to stay positive while experiencing the journey, it will likely be an enjoyable, lifelong pursuit.

Social Gathering clubs

Colleges and local communities often have events and clubs focused on a specific region or nation of the world. Chinese American Club, Asian American clubs, Filipino Culture club, and many others are just a few examples. Sports clubs might tailor themselves around a specific nation’s sport, including Sumo or Escrima or boxing and martial arts. These are good areas to check out and connect with similarly interested people. It offers some of the same benefits as the language learning clubs and culture organizations, in that sharing community with people interested in some of the same things makes the experience much more enriching.

Media and Film

Popular media is another great way to experience a variety of aspects of your target culture. If the specific country has a film industry, seek these out on Amazon, Hulu, Netflix or other avenue that tailors to international films. I found that daytime Filipino dramas are highly popular, and stand up in passion and intensity with some of the best soap operas in the United States. Often, if movies or tv shows were released widely enough, there will also be subtitles (or dubbing) accompanying the original language, in English or your language. Watch them multiple times and see what aspects of the characters peak your interest, be it where they live, their profession, their mannerisms, their favorite food, etc.

By CapnPrep via Wikimedia Commons

Fusion food culture in Asia: Rice-bun fast food (chicken?) sandwich,

Cook!

Everyone eats! Food and culture are intimately tied together. Food speaks to the region’s geography, culture and language. Search out recipes you’re interested in trying on the internet, or rent or buy a cookbook specializing in your chosen culture’s cuisine. Pick a leisurely day (often on the weekend) to shop and try out one recipe of your choice. Take the time to appreciate the different ingredients (maybe only available at a specialty market you may never have been to!) and the people who shop for the ingredients. Ask questions of your friends and family, if you are unsure about anything. Cooking not only helps you try the food of your target culture, but also connect in many ways with the past, as well. I happened to cook sinigang for the first time with a good Filipino friend in graduate school, and loved its strikingly pungent, vinegary goodness. The first time trying balut and dinuguan was definitely a culinary adventure, but I am so glad to have seen many sides of Filipino cuisine.

By GracinhaMarco Abundo (Dinuguan) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

My first time trying dinuguan (or dinardaraan in Ilocano) was in Daly City, CA. It was delicious after a long day of traveling. It had a very earthy, meaty texture and deep flavor, perfect with rice.

Take Action!

These are just a few ways we young, second through fourth generation, mixed parentage people can reconnect with a cultural heritage we may not have been able to experience as a kid. Maybe your family was like mine, and didn’t really practice or teach you much of their own culture. As a young person or an adult, you can feel a little closer to your grandparents and their parents by trying out a few of these tips.

Was there something I missed? Have you found something else that helps you keep connected? I’d love to hear about it!

Mabuhay!

My Winning Submission: EDSA/People Power Revolution Essay Writing Contest

EDSA/ People Power Revolution Essay Writing Contest, sponsored by Philippine American Writers and Artists (PAWA) Inc and the Philippine Consulate of San Francisco


To My Grandparents,

How did you feel when Marcos’ government fell in 1986? What went through your mind when you heard the news? Were you happy that a regime that took so much from the people was gone? As Ilocanos, were you upset that a man who began with big promises for the people was unfairly slandered by opposition forces and unlawfully deposed? Were Ferdinand and Imelda your John and Jackie Kennedy? Were the people right in their revolution? What did your families say when they sent letters, or did they mostly ask for money? I wish I had asked before you went to God’s side. I knew of you, and spent time with you, but never had the chance to really know you. I was so young, and knew nothing of death. I felt you would be around for a long time.

I wish I could have asked you about your life in the Philippines. As a young child, I never learned about our Filipino culture and our Ilocano language. Now that you are both gone, I’ll never be able to recapture your unique stories. As an adult, I can now read about the conditions Filipinos faced in early twentieth century America. Having read America is in the Heart, I can imagine a little of what you, lolo, went through on your journey to Hawaii and California. Did you, like so many pinoys, come to the United States in hopes of a better life? Did you see so little opportunity in your home that you felt a long voyage across the sea would open the doors for your success? What made you decide to purchase one hundred acres of Central Coast farmland with your brothers? How were you able to purchase the land, at a time when Filipinos were still looked at with suspicion and prejudice? So many questions, and yet so few answers.

How did you feel about your children? Were they raised to be wholly American, with so little expression or knowledge of their Filipino heritage? I know among many immigrant parents it was better to cultivate the American culture, in order to assimilate more completely, and draw less attention from the government officials who tried to expel “illegal” workers and “lawfully” exclude Filipinos from free access to all being an American national meant. Were you proud of your children? Did you feel, as so many parents do, that there was more you could have done to make them even more successful?

How did you feel about me? A third­-generation Filipino American with so little knowledge or cultural ties with our family’s Filipino culture. A young person who must rely on books, secondhand stories, and friends’ families to learn anything about our Philippines. Who knew so little that, prior to this assignment, didn’t even know what the 1986 People Power Revolution referred to? I knew who Ferdinand Marcos was, but only as a dictator who styled himself a political playboy. I knew of Imelda Marcos’ shoes.

How can I recapture that narrative which, through my and my parents’ upbringing, was so quickly lost within two generations? While I feel so blessed to have unrestricted access to a wealth of virtual resources I can use to study our culture, they are not you. They are not your individual stories. How can we; young, third and fourth generation Filipino Americans with, at times, so little connection with our Filipino heritage, recover a lost history that’s so often ignored in our American and World history courses? We must ask questions and take action.

Would you, our manongs and manangs, be proud of where we have come? We have a TV show that depicts a Filipino American family sitting down to Thanksgiving dinner without over-­the-­top stereotypes. We fought to rename a high school after two of our most prominent, but largely forgotten, labor union warriors in Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz. We produced a documentary that introduces so many of our own to the fight in Delano, and its role in the great labor battles of the twentieth century. We’ve done much but, like those who came in support of their personal values and rights as citizens on the Epifano de los Santos Avenue, there’s still much work to be done. Neither the Filipino people or we are truly free of the status quo.

Ours is not a physical conflict against an individual regime or tyrant, but a cultural struggle against anonymity in history and invisibility in society. Our conflicts are not waged in revolutionary language with great public displays, but with a quiet determination in the halls of government and behind our cameras. In speaking with you and your children, and telling or retelling the story of our people, we honor our culture and those who fight for their beliefs. We are the offspring of Filipinos, but we are also Americans. Our charge may not be to overthrow a government, but like the Revolutionaries we must change minds and hearts of others who do not know about us. We must save our cultures from disappearing into the shadows of history, lest we ourselves forget. We owe our lives to the sacrifices of men and women like you, lolo and lola. Without you, I would not be here, able to enjoy the benefits of this great country. I hope our young people are up to the challenge of honoring the lives of our grandparents and great-­grandparents, and honoring the spirit of those who fought for a better life for themselves and their families on the EDSA in 1986. Though we are in different arenas, we both fight for our right to relevancy and visibility in our national stories.

To my grandparents, I hope I made you proud. I wish we had had more time to get to know each other, and share our stories with family and food. I look forward to showing you more about my life when I see you again.

Love,
Your grandson

See Positively Filipino Magazine's article on the contest here.