For Immediate Release: October 19, 2017
For More Information, Contact:
Philippine American Bar Association:
Zathrina Perez, zathrina@gmail.com
PABA Condemns Vandalism Of “Little Manila” Community Center During Filipino American History Month
CALIFORNIA — The Philippine American Bar Association (“PABA”) is shocked to learn that the “Little Manila” Community Center in Stockton, California, was vandalized last week, in the midst of Filipino American History Month. According to news reports, one or more vandals ripped down historical photographs showcasing contributions made by Filipino Americans and painted racially charged words on the window of the Community Center, including “you,” “prop,” “whittie,” “brain,” “washed,” and “biggots.” PABA condemns these criminal acts and calls for a thorough investigation, including an investigation into the possibility that these acts constitute a hate crime. Over the next few days, PABA will be reaching out to the Little Manila Foundation to offer our condolences, support, and assistance. PABA will issue a new press release once plans are finalized regarding how our members can also provide their support and assistance. The Community Center is run by the Little Manila Foundation, which is dedicated to advocating for the historic preservation of the Little Manila Historic Site in Stockton and providing education and leadership to revitalize our Filipina/o American community.
For more information on this terrible act of vandalism, please see:
http://sacramento.cbslocal.com/2017/10/16/stockton-racism-vandalism-confusing/
PABA is the oldest and largest local group of Filipino-American attorneys. It was formed to address legal issues affecting the Filipino-American community and to support the Filipino-American lawyers and law students in Southern California. PABA sponsors community legal clinics and provides pro bono legal services. PABA also provides continuing legal education seminars and professional development opportunities for its members, and assists Filipino-American law students through mentorship programs and scholarships.