The San Diego College of Continuing Education hosted the free event as part of the San Diego Community College District’s monthlong celebration.
SAN DIEGO — Students, staff and community members came together Thursday to celebrate Filipino American History Month with music, dancing, poetry and traditional Filipino food.
The San Diego College of Continuing Education hosted the free event as part of the San Diego Community College District’s monthlong celebration, giving people an opportunity to experience Filipino culture firsthand while learning more about its history and contributions to the community.
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Organizers said the goal was to create an inclusive environment where people of all ages and backgrounds could participate, connect and celebrate.
“With everything going on, I think it’s important that these events come and we welcome our students to feed them, to bring them in community with food, and also to engage with them. Like we are a school, so continuing to educate them on different cultures, different histories, and also getting them to find joy in these events with one another,” said Liza Blevins, a member of the college’s Cultural Events Task Force Committee.
Throughout the celebration, attendees had several opportunities to get involved.
A Filipino American dance instructor led participants through a group dance workout, encouraging people to get up and move together.
The event also featured local poets who shared personal experiences growing up Filipino in San Diego, giving the audience a chance to hear stories about culture, identity and heritage.
Traditional Filipino food was also served, bringing attendees together to share a meal while learning more about the community’s traditions.
Blevins said the event was intentionally designed to welcome everyone, including older students who attend the college’s continuing education programs.
The celebration is one of several cultural events organized by the college throughout the year. The Cultural Events Task Force Committee works to recognize different communities and ensure students from diverse backgrounds feel represented.
“Last month, we had Hispanic and Latin Heritage Month. Today is Filipino American History Month, and then I believe in the spring we are also already planning our Lunar New Year event, and so we’re very intentional in making sure our students feel represented in the events that we are hosting,” Blevins said.
The San Diego Community College District is hosting additional events throughout October in recognition of Filipino American History Month.
Organizers hope the celebrations will not only educate attendees about different cultures and histories but also create opportunities for people to connect with one another.
Thursday’s event brought that mission to life through food, music, dancing and poetry, giving students and the larger community an opportunity to celebrate Filipino American culture together.