Filipino Americans for Harris Walz (FAFHW) has expressed deep appreciation for Vice President Kamala Harris following her historic and inspirational presidential campaign. The group emphasized that her candidacy symbolized hope, resilience, and progress, resonating with Filipino Americans and other communities striving for representation and a stronger democracy. Vice President Harris’s leadership, according to FAFHW, motivated millions and underscored the significant role that diverse voices play in shaping the country’s future.
FAFHW National Co-Chair Hon. Melissa Ramoso shared her personal reflections, highlighting the impact of grassroots efforts. “Every Presidential election cycle, I return to Nevada, empowered by the Filipino American community to help ‘Get Out the Vote’ for our Democratic Presidential candidate,” Ramoso said. She recalled a pivotal Election Day moment when she assisted a young, soon-to-be mother in Nevada who was worried about a ballot error potentially negating her vote. “I reassured her, called the Clark County Registrar to resolve it on the spot, and saw her relief as she thanked me, gesturing toward her future child—a moment I’ll never forget,” Ramoso said, emphasizing the profound significance of every single vote.
While acknowledging that their primary objective was not fully achieved, Ramoso conveyed gratitude for Harris’s leadership and her commitment to a more inclusive society. “Now, it’s up to all of us to stay engaged, continue the fight, and push for the representation our communities and future generations deserve,” she added.
FAFHW also commended the tremendous support from its community of volunteers, donors, and advocates who, in just 100 days, spearheaded one of the most extensive voter engagement efforts seen in Filipino American political activism. Driven by over 150 volunteers, the organization mobilized tens of thousands of voters across critical states like Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Nevada, and Arizona through thousands of calls and door-to-door interactions.
The campaign’s success was supported by the wisdom of pioneers in the Filipino American community, including notable leaders like Wendy Ho, San Jose Evergreen Community College District Trustee, who recently concluded 12 years of public service. This legacy of organizing traces back to the Filipino farm labor movement of the 1960s, evolving into the modern efforts that promote unity and advocacy.
National Co-Chair Genevieve Jopanda highlighted the roots of their collective resilience, stating, “Our organizing power is rooted in the struggles and victories of those who came before us—from the Filipino farm labor movement to today’s coalition work. Guided by the strength, love, and wisdom of our elders… we’ve built a record-breaking operation that mobilizes Filipino Americans to advocate for change and representation across the nation.”
FAFHW’s campaign was further amplified through alliances with Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) affinity groups, exemplifying the power of collaboration in amplifying community voices. Jopanda expressed gratitude to the volunteers, saying, “Thank you to our volunteers who have now become our chosen family.”
