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EditorialNovember
16, 2002
Filipinos Must Unite This Post-Election
Period
For today's voters, it is true that ethnic
voting takes a backseat to other more important factors when
deciding
on a candidate -- like say, a candidates' ability to improve
the state's economy or even something less tangible as
this year's mantra of people chanting for "change."
Nevertheless, strategists still recognize
the existence of a "race factor" (however politically
incorrect it sounds) as a real, powerful force come election
season. And this
General Election was no different. Clearly, the swing vote
in the gubernatorial race belonged to the Filipino community.
A split in votes in the Filipino community
among the two gubernatorial candidates took away from the traditional
Democratic base, thus weighing favorably
on the side of Governor-elect Linda Lingle. So what does
all this mean to the Filipino community?
In the past, the Filipino community capitalized
on the
power of wielding the "swing vote." Jeremy Harris
responded in kind when he won the last mayoral race in which
the Filipino community was the swing vote. Can we expect the
same following this gubernatorial race? Or do we Filipinos even
share such expectations? Has our community matured to a level
where we don't even think
in terms of race or empowerment? Is there really a place
for Filipinos in the Republican party? Will Republicans develop
a true grass roots base as the Democrats have and how will Filipinos
respond or take part?
The General Election has definitely brought
about an atmosphere of change as we in the Filipino Community
ourselves find answers of where we stand and what we want hazy.
This is a dynamic and exciting time for all of us. What we need
to do is come together once again in this post election period,
unite and have meaningful dialogue. We can find better answers
to our questions while
working together. Our unity is what has gotten us this far.
Better Promotion Of Culture Needed
At FilCom
Since its grand opening several months
ago, the FilCom Center has been the site of major community
events,
living up to its reputation as both a functionally sound and
endearing project. Recently, even President Gloria Macapagal
Arroyo found the FilCom Center important enough to pay a special
visit during her very brief stop
over. It appears that the FilCom is now on good footing after
a rocky start.
However, one area in need of improvement
is the FilCom Center's role in promoting Filipino culture. Perhaps
the FilCom Board can be more aggressive in scheduling activities
that showcase culture. Filipino dancers, singers and musicians
should be invited to the FilCom regularly for performances that
are open to the general public, not just to Fil-clubs. Maybe
the Board should consider housing a permanent or temporary gallery
featuring works by Filipino artists. Or maybe classes on Philippine
history or even language can be offered in one room of the Center.
In sum, the Board needs to come up with a solid plan to promote
Pinoy culture. The FilCom should be the perfect venue for local
Filipinos to learn more about their roots,
for immigrants to rekindle their home culture, and non-Filipinos
to appreciate our rich customs and talent. In the meantime,
the Board can approve small changes to promote culture. One
simple idea is to integrate quality Philippine arts and crafts
in the building's interior design.
On a positive note and more recently,
the FilCom Center just announced ongoing Filipino Martial Arts
(Eskrima) and Philippine Folk Dance Classes are being offered.
We encourage the community to be responsive, inform friends
and family, sign up and support these classes.
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