Celebrating Filipino Heritage in the Rio Grande Valley: A Community with Heart
May marks Asian American and Pacific Islander Month, a time to honor the rich cultures and contributions of these communities across the United States. In the Rio Grande Valley, a prominent group is dedicated to preserving and celebrating Filipino culture, embodying the spirit of kababayan, a Filipino term meaning fellow countryman or town-mate. This essence of community is integral to the organization’s mission, fostering unity and support among its members.
Growth of the Filipino Community in the Valley
Over the past three decades, the Filipino community in the Rio Grande Valley has flourished. This vibrant culture shares profound similarities with Hispanic traditions—rooted in history, language, culinary delights, and a strong communal bond. These shared traits facilitate a unique cultural intersection that enriches both Filipino and Hispanic residents.
Building a Future: The Filipino-American Association of the Rio Grande Valley
The Filipino-American Association of the Rio Grande Valley plays a pivotal role in nurturing this growing community. Founded with a vision to create a cohesive space for all, the organization is ambitious in its long-term goal: to establish a community center. According to founders, this center will serve as a sanctuary for the youth, providing a space to learn, connect, and preserve cultural practices.
Elizabeth Cantu, one of the organization’s founders, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “Our long-term goal is to build a community center where everybody can go and use it for the youth so we can preserve our cultures.” This commitment to cultural preservation and youth engagement highlights the organization’s dedication to fostering future generations.
Keeping Traditions Alive: The Bayanihan Spirit
Among the treasured customs upheld by the association is the essence of Bayanihan, a Filipino tradition that embodies helpfulness and community support. Estella Sotelo, an auditor for the organization, explains, “In Filipino, it means we naturally will help each other because that is our culture back home. Being in a third-world country, we depend on each other; we have no aid from the government.” This principle can be seen in action within the community.
Collective Action in Times of Need
When adversity strikes, the Filipino community stands ready to support one another. A poignant illustration of this solidarity occurred when a local teacher suffered a stroke. Without close family members nearby to assist her, the association quickly mobilized to fundraise, ensuring she could return to the Philippines to be with her loved ones. This act of kindness showcases the commitment of the Filipino-American Association to uphold the spirit of Bayanihan, providing a vital support system for its members.
Creating a Safe Space for All
The organization’s mission extends beyond cultural preservation—it’s about providing a welcoming atmosphere where all individuals can feel at home and united. The vision for a community center represents a step towards achieving this goal, offering a place for gatherings, educational programs, and cultural celebrations.
For those interested in learning more about the Filipino-American Association of the Rio Grande Valley and its initiatives, more information can be found on their official Facebook page.
Conclusion
As we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Month, it’s essential to acknowledge the efforts of organizations like the Filipino-American Association of the Rio Grande Valley. Their commitment to preserving Filipino culture and fostering a supportive community exemplifies the strength and resilience of this vibrant group. United by shared values and a dedication to helping one another, the Filipino community in the Valley serves as a testament to the power of solidarity and cultural pride.
