Joe Biden honors Pinoys on Fil-Am History Month: 'I hope each one of you feels pride'
United States president Joe Biden honored the Filipino and Filipino American community who “have enriched the very essence of America” on Filipino American History Month.
On his social media posts on Tuesday, Oct. 22 (PH time), Biden recognized the long history of Filipinos and Filipino Americans in America.
“Filipinos and Filipino Americans have enriched the very essence of America,” Biden said in his caption.
Filipinos and Filipino Americans have enriched the very essence of America.
This Filipino American History Month and always, I hope each one of you feels pride – not only in your achievements and aspirations, but also in the dreamers and doers around you. pic.twitter.com/9KUZiC2ZL7— President Biden (@POTUS) October 21, 2024
“America is the only country in the world with a heart and soul that draw from old and new. For hundreds of years, people from around the globe have made the courageous trek to our Nation’s shores,” he said in his statement, adding that the community has "enriched the very essence of who we are as a people.”
He described the Filipino community as community leaders, first responders, and Service members who “put themselves at risk" to keep others safe and as people who "best represent" America as a nation.
“By honoring and reflecting on the proud history and heritage of this vibrant community, we all come closer to realizing the full promise of America for all Americans,” Biden wrote.
“As you celebrate this wonderful occasion with Filipino and Filipino American leaders and visionaries from across the country, I hope each one of you feels tremendous pride in not only your own achievements and aspirations but also those of the people around you,” Biden wrote.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over four million Filipino Americans live in the United States as of 2022, making up 17% of the Asian American population.
The United States celebrates Filipino American History Month every October to commemorate the first recorded presence of Filipinos in their country which dates back to 1587, as per the National World War II Museum website, and to honor the community’s contributions to the nation and its history.