Reflecting on the significant milestones and impactful endeavors of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) throughout 2023, it becomes evident that our commitment to civic engagement, leadership development, national advocacy, and the advancement of culture and arts has never been stronger. Let us journey through the transformative moments that defined our year and set the stage for an even brighter future.
January commenced with a historic triumph for our community as R’Bonney Gabriel, a fellow Filipino American, claimed the title of Miss Universe 2023. However, our jubilation was swiftly tempered by the tragic Monterey Park shootings, which claimed the lives of our kababayans. In response, NaFFAA swiftly called upon elected officials to combat gun violence and ensure the safety of all communities. The month concluded with the 2023 NaFFAA National Leadership Summit in Miami, Florida, where 30+ trustees and regional leaders received invaluable training.
February saw NaFFAA advocating for policies critical to our community’s well-being during President Biden’s State of the Union Address. Our priorities encompassed civil rights, criminal justice reform, healthcare, economic security, and support for military veterans.
March was dedicated to celebrating Women’s Month and honoring the achievements of over 20 Fil Am women elected during the 2022 US Elections. Notably, NaFFAA Florida members spearheaded efforts to include AAPI history in K-12 curriculum, marking a significant step forward in education.
April witnessed NaFFAA’s national advocacy as we threw our support behind H.R.1635, aiming to increase educational assistance for survivors and dependents pursuing studies in the Philippines. This gesture honored the sacrifices of our veteran heroes, underscoring our unwavering commitment to their welfare.
May marked a transition as Kelly Ilagan Coldiron stepped down from her role as executive director to focus on strategic planning, paving the way for NaFFAA to continue its mission under new leadership. Ryan Namata stepped in as Interim Executive Director.
June brought our community together in solidarity against hate crimes, exemplified by the rallying of NaFFAA Desert Mountain Region and various Fil Am organizations in Las Vegas. Moreover, NaFFAA advocated for equality for all issuing a statement in response to the Supreme Court’s Affirmative Action and LGBTQIA+ Decision that infringed upon the protective rights of our community.
July witnessed the success of the L.A. County’s Largest Philippine American Friendship Day 2023, organized by NaFFAA Greater Los Angeles Area. This event exemplified our commitment to building bridges across communities and empowering Filipino Americans. NaFFAA also hired Gabriel Young as Operations Manager and Natalie Jones as an intern.
August saw NaFFAA’s swift response to the devastating wildfires in Maui, rallying support for our kababayans affected by the catastrophe. NaFFAA National present at the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington.
September welcomed new trustees to the NaFFAA Board of Governors, further strengthening our commitment to governance, mentorship, and community representation. Additionally, NaFFAA hosted a groundbreaking Civic Leadership Forum in Las Vegas, uniting Filipino American government officials and community leaders to discuss pressing issues and inspire action.
October celebrated Filipino American History Month, with various regions honoring our rich heritage. Over our social media, NaFFAA held a campaign to highlight various trailblazers who have contributed to Filipino American History.
On the ground, the Desert Mountain Region and NaFFAA Nevada celebrated the proclamation of October 2023 as Filipino American History Month by Las Vegas Mayor Goodman. NaFFAA programs like Fil Am Vote started educating and inspiring Filipino Americans to vote, and Empowering Pilipino Youth through Collaboration (EPYC) commenced its search for the next group of ambassadors and young leaders. NaFFAA National also held a special event in collaboration with the Philippine Embassy to celebrate this historic month.
November witnessed collaboration between NaFFAA and the Northern California Region in supporting the National API Elected Officials Summit, fostering dialogue and relationship-building among API elected officials and community leaders.
As the year concluded in December, NaFFAA continued its service to the community through Consular Outreach programs, providing essential assistance to our kababayans.
NaFFAA started 2024 with its annual Leadership Summit at The Manila Hotel from January 30 to February 1, 2024, marking a historic moment in Filipino American leadership. With over 30 NAFFAA Regional and State officers in attendance, including esteemed figures such as Senate President Jose Miguel Zubiri, Senator Risa Hontiveros, Mayor Honey Lacuna, Mayor Abby Binay, and many other notable Filipino leaders. The summit facilitated collaboration and idea exchange. Key highlights included panels on Filipino American retirement opportunities, disaster relief initiatives, and social responsibilities abroad, alongside inspiring addresses from notable Filipinos.
Looking ahead, 2024 holds promise and opportunity for NaFFAA. With events such as the National Empowerment Conference in August and the Civic Leadership Forum in September, we are poised to continue shaping the history of Filipino American empowerment.
In the words of NaFFAA National President Mariela Fletcher, “The future of NaFFAA is bright because we are not done yet. We will continue to work in improving the lives of our kababayans and making sure we are heard in our community.”
National Chair Brendan Flores echoes this sentiment, affirming, “Together, we will forge ahead, united in our commitment to uplift and empower the Filipino American community.”
As we reflect on the achievements of 2023, let us embark on the journey ahead with renewed vigor and dedication, knowing that our collective efforts will pave the way for a brighter and more empowered future for all Filipino Americans.
Since 1997, the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) has been the standard-bearer for promoting the welfare and well-being of the four million Filipinos and Filipino Americans throughout the United States. NaFFAA is the largest non-partisan, non-profit organization and national affiliation of Filipino American institutions, umbrella organizations, and individuals. Its fourteen-member regions cover the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and the Pacific Islands.
