Inklings on Pamana
Written by Kaye Ferreria-Fong, LCPC
Lead, Therapin*y Kapwa Network Chicago Chapter
THERAPIN*Y KAPWA NETWORK’S
FILIPINO MENTAL HEALTH & HEALING SERIES, EP. 2:
Inklings on Pamana
“As a Filipina American, I think of pamana as something that my ancestors left behind - similar to thoughtful gifts - that they intentionally set aside to be put to good use to continue their legacy.”
October is Filipino American History Month, which highlights the richness of the Filipino American culture and identity. Much is to be celebrated as we give thanks to our ancestors who paved the way for us, and as we share uplifting stories within our communities about our own lived experiences. As I prepare myself to celebrate this special month for Filipino Americans, I cannot help but reflect on the word, “pamana” which in Tagalog means heritage or lineage.
As a Filipina American, I think of pamana as something that my ancestors left behind - similar to thoughtful gifts - that they intentionally set aside to be put to good use to continue their legacy. I feel honored but also carry a deep sense of responsibility to be given these gifts. I consider these gifts to be the Filipino values that I learned from my parents and elders who helped shape my identity.
Community and family are at the heart of our culture. These are aspects of Filipino culture that I value most. We reflect on our family’s own rituals and how we express our values. I enjoy exchanging stories with ates and kuyas that grew up in the Philippines about navigating life in America and what Filipino values they uphold within their own families.
Growing up in an immigrant household can make it difficult to talk about mental health since it’s usually not a top priority. Sometimes it’s not even open for discussion…especially outside of the family. Often there is such stigma and shame surrounding expressing emotions, making it difficult to seek help.
As a therapist, I encourage folks I work with to give themselves permission to acknowledge their feelings and that it is okay to ask for help. There is no medal for suffering in silence or suppressing how you feel for as long as you can. There is hope and healing in sharing stories or making kwento that resonate with us and through these exchanges of stories we feel less alone.
I offer some ideas (and by no means this is an extensive list) of ways to help stay connected to the Filipino American culture and to help with reflecting on your own pamana:
Learn about the history and culture
Read about Filipino American heroes such as Larry Itliong, Philip Vera Cruz, Carlos Bulosan, Vicki Draves, & Maria Ressa to name a few
Podcast: This Filipino American Life, Cultural Kultivators, Pinoy Love Language,etc
Books: “Brown Skin, White Minds” by E.J.R. David, The “Latinos of Asia” by Anthony Christian Ocampo, “America Is in the Heart” by Carlos Bulosan
Get curious and explore your own family history and values
Ask your parents, titos, and titas about stories of their upbringing
Spend intentional time with your elders (maybe your lolo or lola) over bonding moments such as looking at old photos; or even asking them to teach you how they make their sinigang recipe!
Create a family genealogy & learn more about your lineage
Break the cycle: Spread Mental Health Awareness
Reflect on Filipino values that matter to you (examples: pakikipagkapwa (shared identity/fellowship), malasakit (care for others), lakas ng loob (inner strength) etc.)
Challenge toxic traits (examples: colonial mentality, body shaming, colorism, crab mentality, etc.)
Consider going to therapy. Therapy is a place to explore, process, and talk about your emotions and experiences. It can be a healing experience and a place for self-discovery. If you are already in therapy, encourage other family members and friends to give it a try!
Connect with a community and Get Involved!
Whether through local or online safe spaces that allow you to learn more about the Filipino diaspora and to help stay connected with events geared towards uplifting voices of Filipino Americans.
Let’s make this month of October (and every month) an opportunity for all of us to celebrate and take pride in our pamana! Remembering and embodying positive Filipino values, strength, and resilience we inherited from our ancestors!
