Dear Friends,
October marks the start of Filipino-American History Month, a month full of love, labor, and rich history first celebrated by the Filipino-American Historical National Society in 1988. While celebrating the first Filipinos in California, dating back to October 18, 1587, we also honor Larry Itliong’s living legacy on October 25. A leader during the Delano grape strikes, he stood alongside César Chávez and Dolores Huerta in the United Farm Workers Movement, all embodying the spirit of Isang Bagsak– if one falls, we all fall; if one rises, we all rise.
Today, Assembly District 18 and the East Bay are thriving epicenters for Filipino-Americans, showcasing their profound cultural, artistic, and economic contributions. From Alameda’s Sister City partnership with Dumaguete, Philippines, to the decades-long advocacy of Oakland’s Filipino Advocates for Justice, Filipinos have left an unforgettable mark on our region. We also celebrate hidden heroes like Emeryville-based Pixar animator Bobby Rubio, whose short film “Float” boldly promotes autism acceptance and amplifies Filipino-American representation. As we honor these remarkable achievements and more, let us carry forward the legacy of unity, resilience, and pride passed down through generations.
In today’s E-Newsletter: Rising Together: Celebrating Filipino American History Month in AD-18, you will find carefully crafted resources and activities for residents to learn more about – whether it’s the first Filipino Island Fest in Alameda, first-time homebuyer assistance for residents of Emeryville, or critical feedback of residents for Oakland’s General Plan for housing and jobs. As always, you can contact my District Office for any state-level assistance or information to ensure your needs are met.
Yours in Service,
Mia Bonta
Assemblymember, 18th District
In this newsletter, you'll find the following information:
- Section 1: Filipino American History and District Events
- Section 2: District Engagements and Resources
Assemblymember Mia Bonta & staff are committed to keeping AD-18 residents fully engaged and informed. Please send this newsletter to a friend and subscribe!
Stay connected with our office at (510) 286-1670, Email Me, or follow us on social media.
Section 1: Filipino American History and District Events
Section 1A: Isang Bagsak, Juslyn Manalo, and Likha
- Isang Bagsak
- Unity clap for Filipino & Mexican Farmworkers in Delano grape strikes: If one falls, we all fall; if one rises, we all rise “lift as we climb.”
- Juslyn Manalo
- First Filipina Mayor for Daly City.
- Likha, Filipino Folk Ensemble
- Likha, with a studio in Downtown Oakland, teaches young children and adults the significance of Philippine dance, culture, and tradition.
Section 1B: Filipino Island Fest - Alameda's First Filipino Festival
Get ready for a day of vibrant culture and family fun at Alameda’s first Filipino Island Festival! Join live Batok (Indigenous Filipino Tattoo practice), Tinikling (Filipino traditional dance), food, and community leaders for this free event with over 50 vendors.
When: Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Alameda Waterfront Park, 2151 Ferry Point Alameda, CA 94501
Section 2: District Engagements and Resources
Section 2A: City of Oakland’s 50th Annual Black Cowboy Parade and Festival
This vision continues today with its annual parade and festival. People from all walks of life attend this one-of-a-kind parade and festival, which features cowboys, trick riders nationwide, schools, community organizations, and local businesses.
When: October 5, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: 1651 Adeline Street Oakland, CA 94607
Section 2B: City of Oakland’s 55th Anniversary – Otsukimi/Moon Viewing Festival
Join Oakland's Oldest Sister City Relationship going since 1962 through President Dwight Eisenhower’s "people-to-people" program for the annual Otsukimi moon-viewing party!
When: Sunday, October 13, 2024 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Lakeside Park Garden Center, 666 Bellevue Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610
Section 2C: City of Emeryville First Home Down Payment Assistance Program
First Home Emeryville Down Payment Assistance Program is now LIVE! If you’re a first-time homebuyer, this program offers up to $200,000 in assistance to help you purchase a home in Emeryville.
Eligible applicants: The total household income can be no greater than 120% of the area median income, adjusted by household size, as adopted annually by the City of Emeryville.
Apply before October 4, 2024!
Section 2D: City of Oakland
Attention Oaklanders! The City of Oakland wants to hear from you about what your neighborhood needs! How should Oakland plan for housing and jobs? What should the City focus on to make transportation, parks, and recreation even better? This survey is just one of the many ways for everyone who lives, works, or visits our community to share their thoughts and ideas about Oakland's future.
The survey will be open until October 20, 2024, at 5 p.m.
Section 2E: City of Emeryville Pool of Pumpkins
The Emeryville Center for Community Life is hosting a free event for family and friends to enjoy arts and crafts, pumpkin carving, and pool time!
When: Saturday October 19, 2024 from 1 - 3 p.m.
Where: 1170 Steve Dain Drive, Emeryville, CA 94608