Did you know that during October there’s Filipino History Month? Filipino students at Lindbergh High School (LHS) talk about how they celebrate it and how they feel about their culture. 

LHS has a large community of Filipino students, but why isn’t there any information about it? There are currently no events being held or a Filipino club where students can connect with others about their culture. Students previously involved with Filipino club shared their thoughts on its impact.

Students feel that the school could do a better job of educating the community about the culture. “It’s mainly student-led rather than the school contributing to it. Especially now, since there is no Filipino club anymore,” said Saint Dumandan, a 12th-grade student. There is not enough representation for the students. 

They’d feel closer to their culture knowing they have peers they can connect with. However, students can’t fully express themselves when they don’t have support from the school. Last year, they didn’t have a Filipino advisor for the club. Having someone set an example for them would help them grow. 

Daylen Woo, a 10th-grade student, found that Filipino Club helped him connect more with his culture. “I learned how to correctly do Tinikling. Y’all got to do it. It can’t just be for the Filipino people. Everybody’s got to do it.” Tinikling is a traditional dance performed during the holidays.

There’s constantly something new that you can learn about the culture, like how Daylen did! He wishes to learn more, such as the language to strengthen his relationship with relatives.

Making posters around the school would help people get involved and bring the community closer. Students would be interested and want to learn more. Saint also suggested that the school should include facts about the Filipino culture on the announcements or on posters like how it’s done for Black History Month.

These students are proud to be Filipino and aren’t afraid to embrace it. “It’s a part of my identity. It’s how I’m me,” said Daylen. Their identity is what makes them unique. It shapes who they are as a person and can help build bonds with their family as well. 

Family is a big part of Filipino culture. During holidays, they celebrate by having family gatherings and eating together. Karaoke is another fun activity everyone seems to enjoy. Making parols is a tradition on holidays like Christmas. Cultural dances such as Tinikling mentioned before are performed too. 

A couple of these student’s favorite Filipino dishes would be Sinigang and Dinuguan! The students feel the culture has created an impact on their lives. LHS should look into recruiting Filipino staff and being open to rebuilding and creating more connections.