FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Dawn Crawford, media@aasforum.org, 720-231-1930
The Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF) Executive Director Gisela Perez Kusakawa was invited by the White House along with other prominent Filipino American leaders in the country to recognize their contributions and celebrate Filipino American History Month. This prestigious event welcomed the most accomplished Filipino Americans across different fields and industries, including the highest-ranking Filipino American in the Biden administration, Congressional representatives, law leaders, industry giants, and pioneering creatives.
President Joe Biden paid tribute to the “achievements and aspirations” of Filipino American leaders and community members, acknowledging their significant contributions to our country. In a letter to the attendees shared on October 21, President Biden and Vice President Harris highlighted how the Filipino community enriches the nation through its work in various sectors, including athletics, arts, entrepreneurship, engineering, public service, and healthcare.
“As you celebrate this wonderful occasion with Filipino and Filipino American leaders and visionaries from across the country, I hope each one of you feels tremendous pride in not only your own achievements and aspirations but also those of the people around you. Dreamers and doers like you embody the possibilities of this great Nation…” – President Joe Biden in October 21, 2024, letter to attendees
“I am proud to join you all in commemorating Filipino American history and recognizing the Filipino American community’s incredible contributions to our Nation… Filipinos and Filipino Americans have made significant contributions to our country as business owners, healthcare professionals, educators, Service members, first responders, athletes, artists, and so much more…. This month and every month, we honor the heroes upon whose broad shoulders we all stand and celebrate the accomplishments, history, and culture of the Filipino American community.” – Vice President Kamala Harris in October 21, 2024, letter to attendees
In recognition of Filipino Americans and immigrants, AASF Executive Director Gisela Perez Kusakawa, released the following statement:
“It is such an honor to stand with so many accomplished Filipino American and immigrant leaders to celebrate with the White House our rich contributions to this country. I carry with great pride my identity, heritage, and culture with me in all my leadership roles and public service. It is what has shaped my sense of public service, empathy, and community.
As an immigrant to this country, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to pursue my dreams and aspirations. Knowing that the trajectory of my life was changed by immigrating from the Philippines to the United States, I very much understand what makes so many immigrants strive to come here. I became a civil rights attorney to give back and help people who simply want a better life and need compassion above all things.
As a daughter and sister of healthcare workers, I am keenly aware of the sacrifices that Filipino Americans and immigrants have made for all Americans to serve on the frontline and save lives. Many of us have lost family members and friends during the pandemic. In nursing alone, Filipinos and Filipino Americans account for nearly a third of all COVID-related deaths among registered nurses. It is a testament to how our communities have been a foundation for healthcare and medicine in the U.S., and how our country is all the stronger for the diversity of talents and service of so many immigrants.
AASF proudly celebrates Filipino American History Month in October to honor the rich legacy of Filipino Americans and recognize their integral role in shaping the future of our country. During my tenure, we will continue to champion scholarly inclusion, foster understanding, and support the diverse contributions of all Asian American communities nationwide. Together, our AASF community continues to drive our mission of promoting a more inclusive academic environment for all. In this special month, we thank our Filipino American community for their vast contributions and sacrifices for love of country and humanity.”
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Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF) is a national nonprofit that promotes academic belonging, openness, freedom, and equality for all. In response to heightened anti-Asian sentiments and profiling in the U.S., AASF has been a leading national voice fighting for the rights of Asian American and immigrant scientists, researchers, and scholars. AASF membership includes members from the National Academy of Engineering, the National Academy of Medicine, the National Academy of Science, and the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, in addition to past and current university presidents, provosts, vice provosts, deans, associate deans, and past and current department chairs.
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