Among these leaders is Christy Panis Poisot, the vice president of the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS). FANHS is a center of knowledge and understanding that is an invaluable resource for Filipino Americans in diverse communities, educational institutions, museums, authors, scholars, and anyone interested in Filipino American history and culture. The Houston Chapter, FANHS-HTX, which she founded in 2015, is a testament to her dedication and vision, as it began the vital journey of documenting and preserving the local stories of Filipino American immigration.
Under Poisot’s leadership, remarkable projects have come to life—each a celebration of heritage and the power of art to build community ties. Her efforts culminated in creating the “Filipinos in Houston” book, a significant milestone that answered a city mayor’s call for increased visibility of the Filipino community.
Yet, it was not just about recognition but about creating change. The passage of the Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act is a monumental achievement of the importance of preserving the history and the work of FANHS. Thanks to this bill, the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP) has presented over 100+ medal ceremonies and has embarked on embedding education in schools via a free curriculum called Duty to Country, initially funded by the Department of Education and a graphic novel, which is targeted for disbursement and consequent adoption in Texas schools. “This (bill) was more than legislation; it was a rightful acknowledgment of sacrifice and service, woven into the fabric of our nation,” Poisot reflects.
BANF’s support has had a significant impact on Poisot’s and FANHS-HTX’s journey as an organization in the Greater Houston Area, particularly in bringing visibility to overlooked stories of the contributions of Filipino Americans to American history and the FilipinX Artists of Houston. Their stories come to life through storytelling via artistic avenues, such as film, music, authoring books, and educational events. Poisot added, “Financially investing in our artists provides an avenue to build sub-ecosystems for the community to be magnified now and in the future. We are now at the table to recognize and uplift others.”
Coming full circle, FANHS-HTX will host the 20th Biennial FANHS National Conference in Houston, TX July 16-20, 2024, the theme is “Encompassing Our Journeys”. FANHS chapters, from all over the nation, will converge upon Houston, TX. “We are now fellow storytellers and artists to include in the national narrative. We are finally seen,” says Poisot.
As AANHPI month continues, Poisot shares a heartfelt message: “In every artist’s work, there is a story waiting to be told, a history waiting to be honored. This month, let us all listen a little more closely, appreciate more deeply, and support a little more enthusiastically.”