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ASB 2011-2012 - No Rest for the Weary - Stories of Filipino Activism and Ethnic Solidarity

Basic Information
Application Process: 
ASB 2011-2012
Trip Name: 
No Rest for the Weary - Stories of Filipino Activism and Ethnic Solidarity
Trip Location: 
San Francisco/Bay Area, CA and Los Angeles, CA
Air Travel Trip: 
No
Number of Participants: 
12
Trip Description: 

As of 2010, Filipinos Americans have become the second largest immigrant group in the United States. Over 1.7 million Filipinos immigrants currently reside in the US, and close to a million more are currently undocumented. Given the size of this demographic, why are Filipino Americans so often overlooked as an ethnic minority?

This winter, we will closely examine the major sociopolitical issues that affect Filipino communities throughout the country, including educational equity, immigration policy, access to healthcare, and worker’s rights. We will explore the role of grassroots community organizing and activism in empowering people to effect positive social change. We intend to reclaim history by examining how this “invisible minority” has reinvigorated communities engaged in social justice. In the spring, we will have the chance to meet local organizations and visit communities in San Francisco, Daly City and Los Angeles. We will meet organizers who work to provide basic health services for low-income families, student leaders who venture to revitalize local after-school programs, and social activists who use art and music to raise political awareness. In doing so, we hope to develop a greater understanding of the relationship between our own experiences and the histories that influenced them.

While we plan to examine stories of both progress and struggle in Filipino communities, it is important to realize that similar experiences can be found within other ethnic neighborhoods throughout the country. Our trip will serve to raise curiosity about the stories of those within other communities, maybe even ones close to home. It is our hope that -— from whatever background, ethnicity or community you identity with — - you find a new interest in exploring your history.

Trip Leaders
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Julian Jaravata

Julian Jaravata is a junior majoring in Comparative Studies in Race and Ethnicity (CSRE) with a minor in Education. During his time at Stanford, Julian has developed a deep passion for youth empowerment and education, specifically working with immigrant communities. His involvement with the Filipino community has empowered him to articulate his convictions for social justice. Last spring, he participated in the Filipino American Issues and Triumphs ASB trip. The following summer he worked in Seattle with a youth program called FilSTAR, serving predominantly immigrant youth. He is actively involved with the Stanford Asian American Activism Committee (SAAAC), Anakbayan Silicon Valley and served as a co-chair of Kapatid, the high school mentorship program of the Pilipino American Student Union (PASU). For Julian, community organizing is not just a temporary lifestyle; rather, it is a lifelong dedication to the community embodied in every action. He also appreciates the smooth sounds of Sexy Sax Man.

Ronnie Instrella

Ronnie Instrella is a junior majoring in Electrical Engineering. Born and raised in the quiet suburbs of Long Island, New York, Ronnie developed a deep interest in public service at an early age, with a focus in education, youth and local community projects. Last spring, he participated in the Filipino American Issues and Triumphs ASB, and was inspired by stories of ethnic solidarity among immigrant communities. He is currently involved with Stanford Circle K, and spends his afternoons working on MR Imaging techniques in The Lucas Center. In his spare time, Ronnie enjoys shooting archery, running and discussing anything about baseball (he’s a huge Yankee fan). Overall, Ronnie considers himself a minimalist who looks to live life for the sake of others, developing relationships and bonds that go beyond small acts of charity.