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Here at Praytell, we proudly celebrate the Filipino Americans on our teams during Filipino American History Month. It’s a culture rich in special customs, food, and tradition—and we’re excited to share some stories of Filipino American life from right here at Praytell.
Keep reading to hear our unique stories of life growing up Filipino American, and how our unique experiences have shaped who we are today.
Kristle Navarro (she/her) What does it mean to be “Filipino American” in 2023? As a first-generation Filipino American whose parents came to this country in the 80s, I’ll admit I used to be shy about my culture, constantly trying to hide my “Filipino”-ness as a child. I was often embarrassed by the little things like bringing rice to school at lunch because I was usually 1 of 2 other Filipino kids and I would often get teased.20 years later, I’ve noticed a huge positive shift in our culture being embraced. I see it in the sharing of our common experiences through social media trends (“POV: You’re a Filipino mom on vacation”, “Here’s the recipe for Sinigang!”), and our culture showing up in mainstream media with the rise in popularity of Filipino American celebrities and influencers. I also see it in friends and coworkers who know more about our culture than we’re used to. It’s comforting to be living in a time when there is a more intentional effort being put forth to show appreciation for the diversity that resides in this country. Being Filipino is the essence of who I am and I will never again be embarrassed to bring a tupperware of rice for lunch!
Liz Marandola (she/her) I was adopted from the Philippines into a big Italian American family when I was 6 months old. My parents raised me to be very proud of my Filipino roots and Italian heritage, but as a child I wanted nothing more than to blend in with my mostly white schoolmates and friends in my rural hometown. Being Filipino didn’t interest me that much.Little did I know that my tune would change when I joined the Filipino Students Association in college. For the first time in my life, I was surrounded by people who looked like me and were damn proud to be Filipino. I began to embrace my roots through learning and performing traditional dances and of course through our foods during ‘Family Dinner’ nights (lechon anyone?). Importantly, I found a group of lifelong friends who are deeply proud of being Filipino and inspired me to be the same. Filipino American History Month means having an endless curiosity about and pride in my own culture.
Fritz Ramirez (he/him) Filipino American History month is just another excuse for Fil-Ams to throw a party (which is very on brand for us). This month captures what I believe is the essence of Filipino culture—community and gathering. From line dancing to traditional Kamayan style feasts full of Filipino staples, Fil-Am History month celebrates what our culture does best, and that’s bringing people together. We nurture one another and make sure no one leaves on an empty stomach. We welcome everyone in like family and aren’t afraid to give you the same tough love our parents gave us. We share our traditions and get excited to find our commonalities. As a Filipino-American, this is what I’ve loved most about our community and something that I’ve noticed I carry throughout all my interactions with people both personally and professionally.
Amy Vergara (she/her) On first blush, I don’t have a strong connection to being Filipino. A half Chinese/half Filipino mix, my American-born dad and grandpa grew up in a strong assimilation culture and did not pursue overly Filipino activities. My childhood wasn’t characterized by Filipino-ness, nor have my friends or communities in adulthood. More than once, non-Filipino people have known more about the culture than I do!And yet – upon reflection, being Filipino has greatly impacted me. It’s in my maiden name, Vergara - a clearly Spanish surname that influences peoples’ first impressions (and questions, especially when they realize I’m Asian). It’s in how I’ve never called my grandparents “grandma” or “grandpa,” but the more familiar-to-me Tagalog names, “Lola” and “Lolo.” It’s in my delight when tasting lumpia, pancit and adobo. It’s in how I feel a sense of immediate kinship when someone identifies my tan skin and black hair as distinctly Filipina.
In acknowledging Filipino American History month, I’m learning that while being Filipino has never been my primary identifier, it’s still a part of me. And that part - no matter how small or subconscious - is worth calling forth and celebrating.
Kathy Hill (she/her) Growing up as a Filipino/Hawaiian/American, one of the most valuable lessons my family passed down to me was the importance of treating others as if they were family, and always looking out for one another. My parents had an incredible way of welcoming people into their lives, and regardless of whether there was a blood connection, they extended the same warmth and respect as they would to family. My brother and I would call these individuals aunts, uncles, and cousins as a way to honor and appreciate them.Even now, as an adult, I continue to hold onto this cherished tradition and mindset because I truly treasure the sense of community it brings. Whether I'm chatting with close friends or meeting new people, I make an effort to treat them with the same level of respect and care as if they were part of my own family. The Filipino/Hawaiian community has been a constant presence in my life, and to this day, I find myself returning to the traditions and lessons I learned from them each and every day.
elevAsian's purpose is to connect Asian identifying employees in a safe space, discuss the issues impacting our community, and be allies to uplift others.
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