Akbayan

Thought Paper

Akbayan: A Filipino Culture

As one of the most diverse universities in the country, it is not difficult to find an organizations within San Jose State that represent cultures that differ from my own culture. A popular and highly involved organization that takes place on campus is Akbayan, also referred to as the Filipino Club. Akbayan means, "embracing in friendship.” The club began in 1976 as a social group on campus and has progressed into an organization focusing on community, cultural and political ideals. Akbayan strives to teach its members both the Filipino and Filipino-American cultures and the importance of its heritage.
"It is easy to see that we are all about spreading diversity and teaching everyone, regardless of their background, about our culture and customs," said Akbayan's vice president Stephen Dominguez in SJSU’s Spartan Daily. The club organizes various events throughout each semester to share and honor Filipino heritage. Always a highlight of the year for those of Filipino decent is Cal State Fullerton’s annual Friendship Games. It is an event that gathers about fifty Filipino-American student organizations from across the nation for a weekend of fellowship. The overall themes at Friendship Games are spirit, unity, pride, and friendship. Throughout the year, Akbayan hosts a variety of events of their own, such as “Raising Awareness Amongst Filipinos,” which focused on teaching 220 high school students on aspects of Filipino culture. The club also puts on the “Filipino Culture Night,” where members perform traditional songs and dances and of course eat great Filipino food.
Many of Akbayan’s members agree that without this club, they would never have understood their Filipino heritage. Akbayan allows Filipino students a chance to learn and experience their culture with the help and encouragement of their peers. This club gives the opportunity for students to converse socially with other people and expand their...