FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 8, 2011
Contact: Leah Obias, DAMAYAN Migrant Workers Association, 212-564-6057, contact@damayanmigrants.org
PROGRESSIVE FILIPINOS SHED LIGHT
ON REALITIES OF MIGRANTS AT PIDC PARADE
ON REALITIES OF MIGRANTS AT PIDC PARADE
New York--Last Sunday, on Philippine "Independence" Day, Filipino domestic workers, youth, women, LGBTQ, children, and allies marched alongside thousands at the largest gathering of Filipinos on the east coast. DAMAYAN Migrant Workers Association and Ugnayan ng mga Anak ng Bayan marched on Madison Avenue to raise awareness about the pressing issues that plague Philippine society, and Filipino communities abroad, due to the remnants of foreign domination.
The parade is an important gathering of Filipinos of varied socioeconomic backgrounds. Over 75 domestic workers, youth, women, LGBTQ, children, and allies marched donning sashes with slogans exposing the plight of migrant workers separated from their families, the lack of jobs for Filipino college graduates in the Philippines, and the exploitation of youth workers and women worldwide.
The contingent performed a flag dance, which expressed their sincere patriotism to the Philippines and earnest call for change. Awareness of the exploitation of OFWs, women, youth workers, and trafficking survivors fosters a deeper understanding amongst the Filipino community.
Upon arrival at the grandstand, the group was disappointed by the behavior of PIDC staff, who physically shoved and verbally harassed the workers mid performance.
Cita Brodsky, DAMAYAN Chairperson, said, “The pageantry today to celebrate Philippine Independence Day is just a window dressing to what is happening in our community and in the Philippines. The Philippine economy depends on remittances of Filipino overseas workers. Migrant workers face exploitation, abuse, and discrimination. Women are forced to leave children behind and face unbearable isolation. College graduates are jobless and the gap continues to grow between the poor and the ruling elite. Until the needs of the people are met and genuine change happens, then there is no real independence.”
DAMAYAN and Ugnayan continuously work on cases that involve trafficking survivors, exploited workers, and youth. The actions at the parade were a statement for the community to become aware of the issues that seem to be a taboo subject in Philippine society. The parade was also an opportunity to inform the community about the upcoming events and programs of DAMAYAN and Ugnayan.
Chevy Evangelista, Ugnayan Spokesperson, said, “It is difficult to celebrate when the community faces problems that are exacerbated by the economic crisis. But the Filipino youth should be aware of their heritage, identity and the historical significance of the victory of the Katipunan over Spanish colonization. The problems that Filipino youth face in the United States are parallel of those in the Philippines. The youth face tuition hikes, exploitation, and joblessness amongst new graduates.”
Ugnayan is hosting a performance and workshop “The Journey of a Brown Girl” on Sunday, June 19, as part of a continued campaign for youth empowerment. All are encouraged to join in the promotion of awareness about the cultural struggles of Philippine society on the mindset of young Pinays. For more information, or to volunteer or participate, please contact Chevy Evangelista, Mass Campaigns Officer, at (347) 298-7964 or visit ugnayan.blogspot.com.
To view DAMAYAN and Ugnayan's photos from the parade, please "like" DAMAYAN Migrant Workers Association or add Ugnayan NY/NJ on Facebook.
