On Saturday, June 21, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, Hawai‘i’s Plantation Village will host a powerful public forum spotlighting the authors, artists, editors, and cultural historians who have kept the stories of Filipino Americans in Hawai‘i alive through powerful works of nonfiction, art, and literature.

This free event—open to the public in-person and via Zoom—invites the community to celebrate the people behind books such as Ota Camp, The Essence of Time, Shrouded in Mystery, and more. These creators have documented vital stories of struggle, resilience, family, and identity, giving voice to the lived experiences of Filipino immigrants and their descendants.

Attendees will hear from contributors including:

• Melinda Tria Kerkvliet, author and labor historian
• Leon Dadgagan, photographer and community activist
• Christine and Phil Sabado, artist-author team sharing Filipino Hawaiian roots
• Catherine Pascual Lo, librarian and author of The Unveiling of the Hanapepe Massacre
• Chad Taniguchi, oral historian of the Hanapepe Strike
• And many more educators, curators, and advocates for ethnic studies and cultural preservation

Their collective work shines a light on the untold histories of plantation life, displacement, and community organizing—while also celebrating the enduring strength and contributions of Filipino families in Hawai‘i.

Why It Matters
This gathering is not just about books—it’s about identity, justice, and cultural continuity. It’s about preserving the stories that mainstream history often overlooks. It’s about honoring the storytellers who keep our communities rooted and resilient.

Hosted by FAHSOH and FAUW, the event offers a chance to connect, learn, and uplift the stories that shape our shared future.

📍 Location: Hawai‘i’s Plantation Village
📅 Date: Saturday, June 21
🕙 Time: 10 a.m. – 12 noon
💻 Zoom available – email [email protected] for link

Join us for this special opportunity to reflect on the past—and be part of the movement to carry it forward.