A remarkable exhibition at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., invites visitors to delve into the poignant narratives of Filipino Americans, showcasing their struggles and triumphs in pursuit of the American Dream. Titled *How Can You Forget Me: Filipino American Stories*, this exhibition is anchored by a serendipitous discovery from 2005, when Antonio Somera stumbled upon 26 steamer trunks that had long lain undisturbed in a basement in Stockton, California. The contents, dating back to the early 20th century, offer a profound glimpse into the lives of early Filipino migrants who journeyed to the United States, many in search of a better future.
A Journey Through Time
Among the treasures found within those trunks was a simple yet evocative white pillowcase, embroidered with the words “HOW CAN YOU FORGET ME” in bold red thread. This seemingly modest item carries immense significance, symbolising the bittersweet memories of family left behind and the new lives these migrants endeavoured to create. The exhibition, presented by the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center, explores the rich tapestry of experiences that define the Manong Generation—a term of endearment meaning “older brother” in Ilocano, referring to the early wave of Filipino labourers who settled in California and Hawaii.
At its core, this exhibition transcends the realms of agricultural labour history; it is a celebration of human resilience and community. “The goal is to have visitors not only see fragments of these migrants’ lives but their full humanity as well,” explains Sam Vong, the curator. “The previous narratives often reduced them to economic subjects rather than recognising their complexities as individuals.” The exhibition meticulously traces the settlement patterns of these early workers, revealing the vibrant community they fostered in Stockton, which became a crucial hub for subsequent generations of Filipinos in America.
The Legacy of the Manong Generation
The exhibition’s layout takes visitors on a literal and metaphorical journey through the steamer trunks, which serve as time capsules of the past. Vong aimed to create an experience that allows visitors to unpack the stories contained within these objects. “I wanted to take the visitors through a literal and metaphorical unpacking of the trunks,” he reveals. The show not only showcases the arduous agricultural work these men performed but also highlights their advocacy for workers’ rights and their relentless quest for belonging in a foreign land.
A diverse range of additional objects further enriches the narrative. Among them is a beauty pageant dress used for fundraising events, a testament to the significant roles women played in supporting their communities, despite the predominantly male demographic of the early migrants. Vong’s unexpected discoveries within the trunks included three-piece suits and Stetson hats, items that seem incongruous with the lives of low-wage agricultural workers. “These men understood the politics of presentation,” Vong notes. “They saved their money to look respectable in a time when they were often seen solely as farm labourers.”
Confronting Historical Realities
The complexities of being Filipino in America during the early 20th century were compounded by harsh racial exclusion laws. In California, anti-miscegenation statutes barred interracial marriages, while the California Alien Land Law of 1913 restricted many Asian immigrants from owning property. Yet, in the face of adversity, these men sought to preserve their dignity and masculinity. They took stylised studio photographs, donning their best attire, which they would send home as postcards, presenting themselves as successful and respectable individuals.
“They wanted to send these as postcards to their families back home,” Vong shares. “They aimed to present themselves as successful.” Their carefully curated images served not only as personal statements but also as attempts to engage with the broader American culture, reflecting an aspiration for acceptance within a society that often viewed them with suspicion.
A Timely Narrative
In an era marked by contentious debates surrounding immigration, the timing of this exhibition couldn’t be more poignant. The Smithsonian has faced mounting scrutiny from the current administration, particularly after the Trump administration’s executive order in March 2025, which claimed that the institution had succumbed to a “divisive, race-centered ideology.” Yet, Vong remains steadfast in his commitment to telling these vital stories, viewing his role as an opportunity to engage audiences with the complexities of history, including themes of colonialism and imperialism, without explicitly labelling them.
“Regardless of the political climate, these narratives still need to be told fully,” he asserts. Vong’s approach seeks to make history accessible, allowing a broader audience to engage with the stories of Filipino Americans and their enduring quest for the American Dream.
The exhibition’s success is evident in the positive responses from visitors, particularly descendants of immigrants. Many are drawn to the steamer trunks, recalling the personal histories of their own families. Vong expresses his joy in these connections: “When people engage with the objects and stories in the exhibition, they feel inspired to become their own historians.”
*How Can You Forget Me: Filipino American Stories* is on display at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., until 28 November 2027.
Why it Matters
This exhibition is not merely an homage to a specific community; it is a vital reflection on the broader narratives of migration and identity in America. As discussions around immigration intensify, understanding the historical context and personal stories of those who sought a better life becomes increasingly crucial. By shedding light on the complexities of the Filipino American experience, *How Can You Forget Me* serves as a powerful reminder of the shared human experience in the pursuit of belonging and dignity, encouraging all of us to remember the stories that shape our collective past.
