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Photo taken by: Jennifer Skog
My Family Background
In the late 60’s my great-grandparents and my grandma moved to San Francisco from the Philippines to live the American Dream. In my family it is important to be with each other, as well as having a strong catholic faith. Since most of our family had moved to California, my great-grandparents decided to move to the Bay Area to raise their kids with the rest of the family. The topic I have been researching is the Filipino migration. Many Filipinos have embarked on journeys seeking to create new opportunities and experiences to help support themselves and their families. Many Filipinos have seen the pros upon their move to the U.S, which include the chance for better employment and education. Although there are several pros for many Filipino families, there are also some cons that come with moving to the U.S, such as the challenge of cultural adaptation and the heartache of leaving many loved ones behind.
The History Of Filipino Immigration
Timeline by: Kiana Kenion via Canva
The history of Filipino immigration to the United States is a profound narrative of hardship and cultural integration, beginning as early as 1587. On October 18, 1587, the U.S received the first arrival of Filipinos, who were crew members aboard the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Esperanza. This marked the beginning of the Filipino presence in America. By 1765, Filipinos had begun to settle in New Orleans, having deserted Spanish ships. This community grew, and by 1893, after the hurricane destruction of St. Malo, survivors established Manila Village. In the 1900's the U.S saw significant changes; following the Spanish-American War in 1903, the U.S. annexed the Philippines, which increased Filipino immigration. By 1933, Manila Village had flourished, reaching a population of 1,500 Filipinos, who were notably skilled in the sun-drying shrimp process, a technique they developed and perfected.
The New Opportunities That Were Given
The early 20th century marked the beginning of a significant Filipino migration to the United States, which evolved substantially over the years, creating new opportunities and fostering strong community ties. Filipino immigrants began their journey to the United States, starting with the first wave arriving in Hawaii in 1906 to work on sugar plantations. By the 1960s, relaxed immigration regulations in the US and Canada, particularly those allowing for family reunification, opened up new opportunities for Filipinos. This shift helped increase the number of Filipino American households, fostering a community where family ties could strengthen and cultural continuity could be maintained.
Photo by: Mary Oliver/Pajaro Valley Historical Association
The repeal of anti-miscegenation laws further enhanced these opportunities, allowing Filipino men and women to build families without legal hindrances. As the community grew, many Filipinos chose to stay in the US permanently, investing their earnings in building a better life for their families both in America and back home in the Philippines. Additionally, Filipino enclaves in major cities provided a cultural haven for newcomers, helping them to adjust and find a sense of belonging in “Filipinotowns” or “Little Manilas.” These neighborhoods stood as vibrant centers of Filipino culture and social life, offering a supportive environment that eased the integration process. I am sure that people who were a part of the Filipinotowns found comfort in being immersed with others who shared the same backgrounds and experiences. I come from a large family who is proud of our Filipino roots, and I understand how priceless the feeling is to be part of a community that cares deeply for one another.
Picture by: Augie Castaneda, Jr.,
The Struggles of Being a Filipino Immigrant
The journey of Filipino immigrants in America has been marked by considerable hardship and resilience. Many faced the grim reality of low-wage, seasonal jobs, with the harsh winter months posing additional challenges. Compounded by legal barriers, such as anti-miscegenation laws, Filipino men were prohibited from marrying European-American women. This had a significant strain on starting and growing families in the States. This was especially difficult given the demographic imbalance, as there were immigration laws and living conditions that added restrictions on who could come to America. With Filipino men outnumbering Filipino women by a staggering ratio of 15 to 1, it made it harder for the women to come to the United States. Post-World War II policies, including national origin quotas, further restricted Filipino immigration, particularly affecting those who had joined the US Navy.
In the 1970’s, President Marco pushed the middle classed Filipinos out of the country. Marcos declared martial law in 1972 and this led to a period of authoritarian rule, characterized by political repression, human rights abuses, and widespread corruption. The economic policies and political climate created by his regime resulted in significant hardships for political repression, economic decline, safety concerns and opportunities abroad. Additionally, stringent immigrant laws and living conditions disproportionately hindered Filipino women from migrating, exacerbating the gender disparity among the immigrant population. These struggles reflect a complex tapestry of obstacles faced by Filipino immigrants, underscoring their enduring spirit and the quest for a better life in the face of adversity.
Conclusion
To conclude, many Filipinos faced hardships as they immigrated to the United States. However, those hardships led to an abundance of opportunities. I am thankful that my great-grandparents decided to make the move to the U.S because without that choice I would not be granted with the same opportunities that I am given today. I am blessed to be able to further my education and continue to grow my catholic faith at Carondelet. I also know that my living conditions would be drastically different than what I am accustomed to based on the economic disparities in the Philippines.
As I continue on my own personal journey, I plan on continuing to celebrate the cultural traditions that have been passed on to me while staying true to the core values that were taught to me at a young age, which are to work hard and trust in your faith to accomplish any goal that you may have your sight on.
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