Unpacking Filipino American History: The "How Can You Forget Me" Exhibition

The exhibition "How Can You Forget Me: Filipino American Stories," currently at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., showcases the lives of Filipino migrants, particularly the Manong Generation, through artifacts discovered in 26 steamer trunks in Stockton, California. Curated by Sam Vong, the exhibition aims to present a nuanced portrayal of these migrants, who arrived in the U.S. as early as the 1910s, emphasizing their humanity beyond their roles as laborers.

The Guardian

The term "manong," meaning "older brother" in Ilocano, refers to early Filipino laborers who settled in California and Hawaii. These young, single men left their families to work in agriculture during a time when the U.S. held imperial control over the Philippines. The exhibition highlights their struggles and contributions, showcasing how they built vibrant communities despite facing racial exclusion and economic hardships.

The Guardian

Sam Vong, the exhibition's curator, plays a crucial role in narrating the stories of these migrants. The artifacts were preserved by the Legionarios del Trabajo, a Filipino American fraternal organization, which underscores the community's efforts to maintain cultural identity and dignity amidst adversity.

The Guardian

The exhibition not only documents labor history but also reflects broader themes of identity, community, and resilience. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of immigrant experiences in America, particularly during a politically charged climate surrounding immigration and national identity.

The Guardian

Vong emphasizes the importance of telling these narratives, stating, “The executive order has not shaped the way I tell this story, which is a story of people trying to achieve the American Dream.” He views the current political climate as an opportunity to engage audiences with complex historical concepts without using potentially divisive terminology.

The Guardian

The Smithsonian has faced pressure from the Trump administration, particularly following Executive Order 14253, which criticized the institution for adopting a "divisive, race-centered ideology." Despite this, Vong remains committed to presenting these stories, highlighting the positive reception among descendants of immigrants who resonate with the artifacts displayed.

The Guardian

• “The goal is to have visitors not only see fragments of these migrants’ lives but their full humanity as well,” — Sam Vong, Exhibition Curator

The Guardian

• “[It tells] us that these men understood the politics of presentation. They saved their money in order to look respectable in a time where they’re seen as people who were just made to farm.” — Sam Vong

The Guardian

• “They wanted to send these as postcards to their families back home,” — Sam Vong

The Guardian

The exhibition continues to draw attention to the stories of Filipino Americans, encouraging dialogue about immigration and identity in contemporary society. As Vong notes, the thoughtful presentation of these narratives fosters a deeper understanding of the immigrant experience, making history accessible to a broader audience.

The Guardian