resolution
TO THE HONORABLE CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS OF THE GENESEE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, GENESEE COUNTY, MICHIGAN
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN:
WHEREAS, October is recognized nationally as Filipino American History Month, providing an opportunity to recognize the history, culture, achievements, sacrifices, and contributions of Filipino Americans to the United States; and
WHEREAS, Filipino American history has deep roots in the United States, including the first documented arrival of Filipinos in the continental United States at Morro Bay, California, on October 18, 1587; and
WHEREAS, Filipino Americans have made substantial contributions to the United States in health care, military service, agriculture, labor, education, business, science, technology, government, public service, the arts, and countless other fields; and
WHEREAS, Filipino Americans have a distinguished history of military service to the United States, including the service and sacrifice of Filipino soldiers who fought alongside American forces during World War II; and
WHEREAS, Filipino American labor leaders and workers played an important role in the American labor movement, including Filipino American leaders such as Larry Itliong and Philip Vera Cruz; and
WHEREAS, Filipino American nurses, physicians, educators, entrepreneurs, workers, veterans, public servants, and community leaders continue to strengthen communities throughout the United States; and
WHEREAS, the Filipino American community has enriched American culture through music, dance, cuisine, literature, education, the arts, and other traditions; and
WHEREAS, October was promoted as Filipino American History Month beginning in 1991 by the Filipino American National Historical Society, and the observance has subsequently received national recognition;
WHEREAS, the County of Genesee recognizes the importance of preserving Filipino American history and celebrating the contributions of Filipino Americans to our Nation and our local communities;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Genesee County Board of Commissioners hereby recognizes October 2026 as Filipino American History Month in Genesee County; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board encourages residents, schools, libraries, cultural organizations, businesses, and community groups to participate in appropriate activities celebrating Filipino American history, culture, achievements, military service, and contributions; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the County of Genesee expresses its appreciation to Filipino Americans for their service, sacrifice, accomplishments, and continuing contributions to Genesee County, the State of Michigan, and the United States of America.