The Collegian

Issue date: 4/15/05 Section: News

Media Credit: Royce Santos Marie Romero sets up her table of books at "Reclaiming the Legacy," presented by Little Manila Saturday, April 9. [Click to enlarge]

Little Manila recently presented "Reclaiming the Legacy," an event that explored the history of the Filipino labor movements and immigration experiences in Stockton from the 1920s to the 1950s.

The event, held in Danner Hall and the West Forum, took place Saturday, April 9, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The event had three sessions, each featuring speakers on different subjects, discussing Filipino culture and history, some even telling personal stories of migrating to the United States.

"We felt inferior to the white race," said Anita Bautista, a speaker at the event. "Life wasn't pleasant back then."

"Reclaiming the Legacy" also featured information booths, food and refreshments, a Little Manila table, and a book display where attendees could purchase books on Filipino culture.

"It is very important to have our presence here at Delta and even in California," said Marie Romero, a bookseller and attendee at the event. "Our forefathers have paved the way for us and it is our duty to create longevity that we are Filipinos and we are here to stay," she continued.

Stockton is home to many Filipino-Americans, and was once considered the largest Filipino populated area for outside the Philippines. The Filipino community is the largest of all Asian American groups in San Joaquin County, according to the "Remember and Reclaim" Little Manila pamphlet.

"Longevity of any culture depicts its history on printed material, and it's important to leave our legacy," Romero said. "I am a bookseller from San Francisco, and this kind of event should not be missed; it's very important to make our presence known, no matter what field of life we are in."

Little Manila was founded in 1998, in an attempt to remember and reclaim Filipino history and culture.

"Being here is a great educational opportunity," said Jennifer Washburn, a spectator at the event. "I believe that Filipinos played an intricate part in California's agricultural history, and they have a great culture. Their strength of family and faith make Filipinos a great addition to California."

"Each story told, every journey expressed, every person's opinion told at this event was spectacular," Jeremy Sanchez said.

"The Filipino culture is family, with a community consisting of good work ethics," Triston Osborn explained.

Approximately 120 people attended the event.

"I couldn't resist, I just had to be here," Romero said.

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