Story perspectives

Historic Filipino Migrant Trunks Fuel Smithsonian Exhibition

4/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Antonio Somera of Stockton, California discovered 26 steamer trunks tied to Filipino migrants from the early 20th century.
The trunks underpin Smithsonian's National Museum of American History exhibition How Can You Forget Me: Filipino American Stories.
Curator Sam Vong of the Smithsonian highlights the exhibition's aim to illuminate migrants' humanity and labor.
Despite political pressures, Vong remains committed to sharing these narratives with visitors, including descendants of immigrants.

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Story summary

Antonio Somera of Stockton, California discovered 26 steamer trunks tied to Filipino migrants from the early 20th century.
The trunks underpin Smithsonian's National Museum of American History exhibition How Can You Forget Me: Filipino American Stories.
Curator Sam Vong of the Smithsonian highlights the exhibition's aim to illuminate migrants' humanity and labor.
Despite political pressures, Vong remains committed to sharing these narratives with visitors, including descendants of immigrants.