1550 Oak St.
Come celebrate the rich history of Filipino Americans in Alameda. In recognition of Filipino American History Month, Friends of the Alameda Free Library is sponsoring a program featuring Filipino food and music along with a panel discussion about Filipino Americans in Alameda and the life and work of labor organizer Larry Itliong.
A reception starts at 5:30 p.m. with food, music and displays from Alameda’s own Filipino American families. The program will get going at 6:15 p.m. with welcomes from Luzanne Engh, board of directors, Friends of the Alameda Free Library, and Cynthia Bonta.
At 6:20 p.m. a panel will discuss the history of Filipino Americans in Alameda and the important role Filipinos played in the California labor movement. The panel includes:
- Jacqueline Mitchell, introductions
- Ellie Luis, Filipinos of the East Bay
- Bob Balandra, Bohol Circle, Inc.
- Faustina and Gary Cagaanan, reflections on Bohol Circle, Inc.
At 6:50 p.m. a panel will explore the influence of Filipino Americans in the U.S. labor movement. Speakers will include:
- Crystal Faye Sale Cajilog, moderator
- Gayle Romasanta, co-author and publisher of “Journey for Justice, the Life of Larry Itliong:” A tribute to Dawn Mabalon
- Robyn Magalit Rodriguez, UC Davis: developing curriculum on Filipino labor leaders
The event ends at 8 p.m.
The event is sponsored by FAL with community partners Bohol Circle, Inc., City of Alameda and Alameda County Filipino American Historical Society, Alameda Sister City Association, and Alameda-Dumaguete Sister City Partnership.
