Filipino American National Historical Society Delano Chapter

The Filipino American National Historical Society Delano Chapter preserves, documents, archives, and promotes the rich history of Filipino Americans in the Delano, CA community and the greater southern San Joaquin Valley. Established in June 2015 as the 33rd chapter of the national organization, FANHS Delano specializes in identifying, gathering, and disseminating historical materials and cultural information that illuminate Filipino American contributions and experiences. The chapter is uniquely positioned in Delano, the historic center of the 1965 grape strike led by Filipino workers and labor leaders, providing contextualized programming and educational initiatives that connect past struggles to contemporary understanding. FANHS Delano organizes monthly meetings, cultural events, and community gatherings that engage residents in exploring Filipino American heritage. The organization hosts educational programs, artistic presentations, and commemorative events such as October Filipino American History Month celebrations. Through initiatives like the Congressional Gold Medal Award Project honoring Filipino Veterans of World War II and community art projects that humanize workers' stories, FANHS Delano creates meaningful platforms for dialogue and learning. The chapter also maintains a digital storytelling initiative called Salasay where community members can share family immigration stories and personal histories. By combining archival work with public engagement, FANHS Delano serves as a cultural hub for understanding Filipino American history and fostering appreciation for the contributions of Filipino Americans across generations in the Delano area.