Fil-Am delegates inspire hope, unity at DNC in Chicago

Filipino Americans for Harris-Walz delegates kick off Day One of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. CONTRIBUTED

CHICAGO – The Filipino Americans for Harris-Walz (FAFHW) delegates returned to Chicago’s United Center and McCormick Place for Day 2 of the Democratic National Convention Tuesday, throwing their support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, who officially became the party’s nominee earlier this month.

The more than 40 FAFHW delegates were led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta and North Carolina State Representative Maria Cervania.

Kicking off Day 1 on Monday, the Fil-Am delegates joined voices from across the Democratic coalition that came together to honor President Joe Biden’s lasting legacy, celebrating his role in “building back” America by protecting the backbone of the country – the middle class and working families.

President Joe Biden waves on Day One of the Democratic National Convention, at the United Center, Monday, Aug. 19, 2024 in Chicago. (Mike Segar/Pool via AP)

The day began with the DNC convention caucus and council meetings, where FAFHW delegates and volunteers gathered to discuss key issues affecting various communities, including Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, small businesses, labor, Black Americans and the LGBTQ+ community.

The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm and energy, as many attendees experienced their first political event, inspired by Harris’ journey. Their excitement and passion highlighted the grassroots spirit driving the Harris-Walz campaign forward.

In the afternoon, FAFHW co-hosted the Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) field operations briefing, a crucial event focused on turning the energy from the DNC Convention into actionable steps to secure votes from the AANHPI community.

The briefing highlighted strategies for mobilizing voters and emphasized the importance of collective action in the upcoming election. FAFHW’s involvement underscored its dedication to ensuring that the voices of the AANHPI community are heard loud and clear in the presidential election.

FAFHW representatives also attended a “Lunch & Learn” session organized by the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies (APAICS), featuring acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, Senator Tammy Duckwort and Ambassador Katherine Tai.

The session underscored the importance of building a pipeline for future AANHPI leaders and the critical role of representation in government. Many FAFHW members, proud alumni of APAICS programming, exemplify how these initiatives nurture leadership within the Filipino American community.

As the early evening approached, FAFHW gathered for “A National Family Gathering,” an intergenerational event organized by Mark Pulido, former mayor of Cerritos, Calif.

The gathering brought together members of all ages to support each other and honor the foundational work of Filipino American pioneers – like Joe Montano, US Senator Tim Kaine’s district director – and celebrate the next generation of college student leaders who raised their own funds to attend the convention. The event was a heartfelt reminder of the enduring commitment of Fil-Ams to civic engagement.

Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su and California Attorney General Rob Bonta spoke about the importance of community leadership. Artesia Councilmember and former Mayor Melissa Ramoso, FAFHW national co-chair, introduced Bonta and spoke about the history of Fil-Am participation in the Democratic National Conventions through the years.

Bonta also highlighted the rich history of Filipino American organizing and fighting for rights, underscoring the community’s long-standing commitment to justice and equity.

Speakers reflected on President Biden’s leadership in delivering life-changing policies for all Americans. “We wouldn’t be here without Joe Biden – his courage and leadership have laid the foundation for our convention,” said Democratic National Convention Executive Director Alex Hornbrook. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton echoed this sentiment, saying, “On her first day in court, Kamala said five words that guide her still: ‘Kamala Harris, for the people.’ That’s something Donald Trump will never understand.”

In his remarks, President Joe Biden addressed the ongoing battle for the soul of America, emphasizing how democracy has prevailed and delivered under his administration.

President Joe Biden waves during the Democratic National Convention Monday, Aug. 19, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

He called on Americans to continue this fight with Harris and Governor Tim Walz, ensuring that democracy is preserved. Biden concluded with a powerful message of optimism, stating, “I can honestly say I’m more optimistic about the future than I was when I was elected as a 29-year-old first-time senator.” This note of hope and inspiration resonated deeply with the audience, leaving them energized for the road ahead.

The night concluded with FAFHW members joining key receptions hosted by APIAVote and unions such as AFT, AFSCME, NEA, and SEIU. At the APIAVote reception, FAFHW National Co-Chair Mario Salazar remarked, “There was a 47 percent growth rate in AAPI voting in 2020, and we can expect those record trends to continue.”

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