(Tinikling Dance: Tinikling is often described as a folk dance that represents the attempts of Filipino rice farmers to catch and prevent the Tikling bird from stealing ripe rice grains from the fields.)
FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH
Celebrated in October, Filipino American (Fil-Am) History Month honors the history, pursuits, accomplishments, and legacy of Filipinos in the United States. It also serves to provide a link between Filipinos in the U.S. and Filipinos in the Philippines by showcasing their shared culture and heritage.
Filipino Americans are the second largest Asian American group in the nation and the second largest ethnic group in California. The celebration of Filipino American History Month in October commemorates the first recorded presence of Filipinos in the continental United States, when Luzones Indios, native Filipino sailors conscripted into the Spanish navy as labor during the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade, came ashore from the Spanish galleon Nuestra Senora de Esperanza and landed at what is now Morro Bay, California, on Oct. 18, 1587. After years of advocacy by individuals and organizations, in 2009 the United States Congress recognized October as Filipino American History Month. Various states, counties, and cities in the U.S. have established proclamations and resolutions declaring observance of Filipino American History Month.
In celebration of Fil-Am History Month this year, Solano County Library is proud to host many cultural programs throughout the county. Learn more about Filipino culture by joining us at our events and exploring our resources.
EVENTS
FILM SCREENING “GENERATIONS” AND FILMMAKER
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7 @ 1:00PM
FAIRFIELD CORDELIA LIBRARY
Filmmaker TJ Walkup presents “Generations”, his documentary exploring the unique Filipino American immigrant history of Vallejo, California. Based on the book, ‘Filipinos in Vallejo” by Mel Orpilla, the film’s narrator. Q&A with filmmaker to follow. Light refreshments will be available. Seating is first come, first served.
FILIPINO STORYTIME WITH KABABAYAN KIDS
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 14 @ 10:00AM
SUISUN CITY LIBRARY
Kababayan Kids presents songs, stories, Tagalog vocabulary and a cultural craft! Best for kids ages 3-10 and their families.
FILIPINO STORYTIME AT THE MALL WITH MS. ANJELI
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19 @ 1:30PM
SOLANO TOWN CENTER
Ms. Anjeli presents Filipino songs and stories for kids!
FILIPINO CULTURAL PERFORMANCE
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21 @ 2:00PM
VACAVILLE PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE
Kaisahan of San Jose Dance Company, Inc. presents Filipino tradition, culture, and custom told through dance and music. Seating is first come, first served. Doors open at 1:00PM and seating begins at 1:30PM.
MAKE A FILIPINO “PAROL” LANTERN WORKSHOPS
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 @10:00AM FAIRFIELD CORDELIA LIBRARY REGISTER HERE
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 @2:00PM VALLEJO JOHN F. KENNEDY LIBRARY REGISTER HERE
It’s the most wonderful time of the year!
The holiday season has arrived and it’s time to craft parols! Parols are star-shaped, hand-crafted paper lanterns that have been popularized in the Philippines in celebration of the holidays. Ages 7 to adult. Anyone under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Registration is required. One parol per group registration. Adult assistance for the craft is required (parol will be ~14 inches in diameter).
FILIPINO AMERICAN HISTORY & CULTURE
MONDAY, OCTOBER 23 AT 6:00PM
VALLEJO JOHN F. KENNEDY LIBRARY
Author, historian and Filipino American advocate Mel Orpilla discusses his book “Filipinos in Vallejo”, providing a fascinating insider’s look at Filipino history and culture. Passionate about the importance of this rich heritage, Mel has dedicated his efforts towards a greater understanding and awareness of Vallejo’s Filipino community. Join us for Mel’s presentation followed by a book signing.
Traditional Filipino “merienda” or snacks will be served.