PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

 

Dear CMC Family,

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I am filled with pride and gratitude as we celebrate Filipino American History Month this October. This month is more than just a celebration; it is a heartfelt acknowledgment of the rich tapestry that Filipino Americans have woven into our nation’s history and culture. On October 18, 1587, the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Esperanza first docked in what is now Morro Bay, California, marking the beginning of our vibrant Filipino presence in America (Zinn  Education Project 2024).

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Reflecting on my journey since arriving in the U.S. in 2002, I feel incredibly honored to serve as the first Filipino President of CMC. When I came here, I carried my family’s hopes on my shoulders, eager to improve our lives. But I found something even more profound: the unwavering support and warmth of this incredible community. Sharing my culture and heritage with all of you has been both a privilege and a source of immense personal growth. My identity as an Asian American profoundly influences how I approach education, driving me to create a learning environment that values and uplifts diverse perspectives. This path has had its challenges, but it has also filled me with pride as I navigate the complexities of representation within predominantly Western educational frameworks.

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This October also marks the 53rd anniversary of the First Young Filipino People’s Far West Convention, a pivotal moment in the Filipino American Movement. This gathering of passionate young advocates was a powerful force for change, championing essential issues like farmworkers’ rights and social justice. It serves as a testament to the impact of youth advocacy and community engagement, reminding us of our shared responsibility to uplift one another.

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As a Filipino from a family of farmworkers and educators, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles and triumphs that define our community. This background fuels my commitment to advocating for fair and just labor practices for farmworkers and immigrant educators alike. Many of us understand the sacrifices made by those who work tirelessly to provide for their families, often under difficult conditions and with little recognition. It is essential that we honor their contributions and fight for their rights, ensuring they receive the respect and support they deserve.

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As we celebrate Filipino American History Month, I encourage you to reflect on your own stories and how your identities shape your work. Let us take this time to share our experiences and support one another, creating spaces where our diverse voices are not just heard but celebrated. Together, we can promote inclusivity and understanding in mathematics education.

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Thank you for being part of this journey with me. I am filled with anticipation for our continued collaboration as we strive to make a meaningful impact on our community. Together, we can achieve great things.

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With warmth and gratitude,

Ma Bernadette Andres-Salgarino, Ed.D., NBCT

President, California Mathematics Council

@salg274

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Resource:

Zinn Education Project. 2024. “Oct. 18, 1587: Arrival of Filipinos in North America.” 

https://www.zinnedproject.org/news/tdih/filipino-american-history-month

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