COURSE 10

PINOY TEACH

After years of dedicated work by scholars, community activists, parents, and passionate FilAMs, Washington in 2022 offered the first ever course in Filipino American history to students in middle schools. The course titled “Filipinx American US History” is a groundbreaking initiative that took so much advocacy to make possible. 

In Seattle, the Filipino community is focused on maintaining cultural continuity through the practice of sharing traditional dances, hosting cultural events, and specifically educating the next generation of children. Many of this cultural programming occurs at the Filipino Community of Seattle (FCS), or at FilAm clubs throughout Washington Universities, where thanks to the organization of the Filipino Community there exists a physical place which can offer broad services for the FilAm and Filipino population. At Archipelago, our very own Amber Manuguid is writing the curriculum that will impact the next generation of program participants.

To be able to see oneself reflected in American history, to learn about instances of deep solidarities and pathmakers, and innovators has had a profound impact on students of Philippine ancestry. 

While a curriculum focusing on Philippine history and Filipinx Americans is back in the Seattle public school system, this is not the first time that these stories and histories have been circulating to teach youth. Pinoy Teach, founded by Dr. Patricia Halagao and playwright Timoteo Cordova created a comprehensive curriculum for elementary aged children. Their work in demonstrating what is possible made a future of flourishing present.