Celebrate Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month with Grossmont College API Committee and the First Year Experience mentors. Enjoy our marketplace of food, drinks and gifts.
Date: Thu, May 7
Time: 11:30 am-1:00 pm
Location: Main Quad
- This is a FREE event.
- Food provided by Aunty Lynne Catering in San Diego, Island Style Cafe in Santee and Himalayan Cuisine in La Mesa.
- PHOTOS
Celebrating our Asian Pacific Islander graduates and their achievements here at Grossmont College.
Date: Mon, June 1
Time: 5:00-7:00 pm
Location: Main Quad
- RSVP by Fri, May 15th
In April, our very down Steven Domingo, District Director of Information Security, was named Cybersecurity Leader to Watch by CISO Whisperer. Is one of five leaders in the California community college system to be named by the organization. He is responsible for managing the activities and operations of the GCCCD information security needs.
Thank you for representing our API community!
Autumn Durald Arkapaw becomes first woman to win an Oscar for cinematography
‘KPop Demon Hunters’ wins Oscar for best animated film
"Golden" Makes History After Becoming First K-Pop Song to Win a GRAMMY
February 17, 2026 to Feb 5, 2027
- The Horse symbolizes heightened energy, passion and transformative potential.
- Chinese greeting: Kung Hei Fat Choy! Wishing a happy and prosperous new year to you!
- Korean greeting: Haengbokan Saehae Doeseyo! Have a happy new year!
- Japanese greeting: Akemashite omedetō gozaimasu! Happy New Year!
Want prosperity in 2026? How about good luck? Then come and enjoy this wildly spectacular Lunar New Year Lion Dance performed by the GDPT Chanh Kien Lion Dancers!
Date: Feb 7, 2026
Time: 3:00 pm
Location: Linda Vista Library, 2160 Ulric St., San Diego, CA 92111-6628
This community-rooted festival in City Heights kicks off Lunar New Year celebrations with a focus on cultural traditions, performances and food of Vietnam and Southeast Asia communities.
Date: Feb 13-15, 2026
Time: all day
Location: Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park
Want prosperity in 2026? How about good luck? Then come and enjoy this wildly spectacular Lunar New Year Lion Dance!
Date: Feb 14, 2026
Time: 1:00-1:30 pm
Location: Balboa Library
Want prosperity in 2026? How about good luck? Then come and enjoy this wildly spectacular Lunar New Year Lion Dance!
Date: Feb 20, 2026
Time: 3:00-3:45 pm
Location: San Ysidro Library
After years in Mira Mesa, the 2026 Festival moves to Liberty Station. Family-friendly, rides, games, food, music.
Date: Feb 20-22, 2026
Time: all day
Location: NTC Park at Libery Station
FREE Admission
Want prosperity in 2026? How about good luck? Then come and enjoy this wildly spectacular Lunar New Year Lion Dance!
Date: Feb 21, 2026
Time: 11:00-11:30 am
Location: Del Mar Library
Cultural and Educational Lunar New Year events happening at Balboa Park!
Date: Feb 21-22, 2026
Time: 11:00 am-5:00 pm
Location: House of China at Balboa Park
Date: Feb 8-Mar 1, 2026
Time: 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Location: Downtown San Diego, 428 3rd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
December 2025
On Sep 2, 1885, 28 Chinese miners were massacred in Rock Springs, WY. Professor Robert Henry from GC's History Department will tell this little known drak chapter in Chinese-American history, an event stemming from labor strife and anti-Chinese discrimination.
Date: Dec 2, 2025
Time: 2:00-4:00 pm
Location: Griffin Gate
November 2025
Pacific Arts Movement presents the 26th San Diego Asian Film Festival. As one of the largest showcases of Asian and Asian American cinema in North America, the festival will feature over 150 films representing powerful, global storytelling.
We offer student discounts, and we’d love to help your students and faculty engage with this year’s exciting lineup.
Date: Nov 6-15, 2025
For full schedule
October 2025
Filipino American History Month
The Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District has been selected by the San Diego Foundation to serve as a host site for this free, year-long mental health mentorship and leadership program for San Diego youth ages 14–25, with a focus on AANHPI and BIPOC communities.
Through five powerful workshops, applied learning art projects, and community events, students will explore mental health from a decolonized and culturally rooted lens. They will:
- build skills as peer healers
- create original art or film projects to be entered in scholarship competitions
- earn community service hours
- be honored as Mental Health Leaders at a Community Wellness Celebration in May 2026
Students can expect to learn important skills like: Self-Awareness, Liberatory Emotional Intelligence, Non-Violent Communication, Decolonized Trauma-Informed Care Training, Relational Repair Skills, and Community Organizing and Leadership.
We’re currently building our Grossmont + Cuyamaca Community Team and looking for 20–30 participants to join.
Please email june.yang@gcccd.edu if you are interested in being nominated.
In collaboration with Grossmont College's Latine Alliance.
Celebrate Filipino American History Month with Dr. Rudy Guevarra Jr, co-editor and co-author of Culinary Mestizaje: Racial Mixing, Migration, and Foodways in the U.S. We’ll explore stories, scholarly insights, and recipes rooted in places like Mexico, the Philippines, and Hawai‘i, and learn how immigrant communities—from chefs to farmworkers—have transformed U.S. food cultures through resilience and blended traditions.
Date: Oct 3, 2025
Time: 11:00 am-12:00 pm
Location: Zoom
Registration required.
Join us under the full moon for a joyful evening of culture, creativity, and community!
Date: Oct 4, 2025
Time: 3:00-9:00 pm
Location: Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park, 3795 Fairmount Ave, 92105
Lion dance , Free paper lanterns, Mooncake-making workshop, Cultural performances, Bouncy houses, and a movie under the stars.
Let’s celebrate while caring for our neighborhood.Before the festivities begin, we invite you to join a community clean-up walk around the park — a simple way to give back, connect, and honor our shared space.
Receive a Filipino flag to add to your collection and enjoy Filipino food with other Filipinos and allies.
Date: Oct 6, 2025
Time: Starts at noon
Location: Main Quad
Food, music and fun provided.
In collaboration with the Latine Alliance, GC's SOGI Club and Classified Senate, let's celebrate National Coming Out Day.
Date: Oct 9, 2025
Time: 11:30 AM-2:30 PM
Location: Main Quad
Food, games and music provided.
Join the Fifth edition of San Diego Filipino Film Festival! Watch Filipino films from around the world, meet and greet with filmmakers and celebrities, and celebrate with us at the after parties.
Dates: Oct 9-12, 2025
Time: varies
Location: San Diego
For information and tickets, www.sdfff.org.
The Bakunawa Market, a Filipino inspired popup market in San Diego, free of charge and open to the public. Kamayan Food and Drinks, workshops, makers and healers.
Dates: Oct 18-19, 2025
Time: 2:00-8:00 pm
Join us and tantalize your taste buds at a selection of restaurants in San Diego to taste different kinds of dumplings and more!
Date: Oct 22, 2025
Time: 5:30-9:30 pm
Location: 92015
Identity and Belonging Open Mic Poetry/Stories/Comedy/Music and Reading by Poet & Professor Jason Magabo Perez.
Date: Oct 27, 2025
Time: 11:00 am-12:30 pm
Location: Library Living Room, 70-162
Filipino food will be served.
September 2025
SAN DIEGO 5K & 10K Run/Walk
Date: Sun, Sep 7, 2025
Location: Tecolote Shores Park, 1292 E. Mission Bay Dr., 92111
• Collector’s Finisher Medal for all participants
• Aloha Run Beach towel
• Chip timed results
• Super scenic and flat course
• Post-race Luau with live music, dancers and drummers
• Winner awards for top 3 in five year age groups
For more information, https://www.thealoharun.com/san-diego/
The Filipino Heritage will be honored at this Padres Baseball game vs. the Cincinnati Reds. Celebrate with a limited-edition themed jersey!
Date: Sep 8, 2025
Time: 6:40 pm
Location: Petco Park
This is a ticket purchased event.
The Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District has been selected by the San Diego Foundation to serve as a host site for this free, year-long mental health mentorship and leadership program for San Diego youth ages 14–25, with a focus on AANHPI and BIPOC communities.
Through five powerful workshops, applied learning art projects, and community events, students will explore mental health from a decolonized and culturally rooted lens. They will:
- build skills as peer healers
- create original art or film projects to be entered in scholarship competitions
- earn community service hours
- be honored as Mental Health Leaders at a Community Wellness Celebration in May 2026
Students can expect to learn important skills like: Self-Awareness, Liberatory Emotional Intelligence, Non-Violent Communication, Decolonized Trauma-Informed Care Training, Relational Repair Skills, and Community Organizing and Leadership.
We’re currently building our Grossmont + Cuyamaca Community Team and looking for 20–30 participants to join.
Please email june.yang@gcccd.edu if you are interested in being nominated.
Celebrating Asian American & Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions. This year we aim to:
- Raise awareness and #SpeakUp about how AANAPISIs drive AANHPI student success;
- Grow and strengthen our national network of supporters, advocates, and champions;
- Support federal policy leaders who are pushing for sustained investment in AANAPISIs and their students.
As we shine a spotlight on the transformative work of AANAPISI institutions, we invite our partners to learn, share, and amplify.
Attend Virtual Events and more.
The Korean Heritage will be honored at this Padres Baseball game vs. the Brewers. Celebrate with a limited-edition hat!
Date: Sep 23, 2025
Time: 6:40 pm
Location: Petco Park
This is a ticket purchased event.
We’re bringing the flavors of Southeast Asia to Clairemont — and all you need is an appetite. 🥢 Satay 🌶️ Tom Yum 🍚 Hainan Chicken Rice …and more!
Date: Sep 27, 2025
Time: 11:00 am-3:00 pm
Location: First Chinese Church, Clairemont
August 2025
Chief of War, TV mini series
In Chief of War, Kamehameha is portrayed as a man coming to terms with his kuleana and reluctantly accepting the burden of leadership. A thrilling, unprecedented telling of the unification of the Hawaiian Islands from an indigenous perspective. A Hawaiian war chief joins a bloody campaign to unite the warring islands in order to save them from the threat of colonization. Created by Jason Mamoa and Thomas Pa'a Sibbett.
Enjoy two days of incredible island and reggae music and good vibes! Alongside will be the Great Island Cook Out food festival.
Date: Aug 30-31, 2025
Time: TBD
Location: Gallagher Square at Petco Park
This is a ticket purchased event.
July 2025
Join the Pacific Island Festival Association in this scholarshiip fundraiser which inclues live entertainment, taste competitioin and a silent auction.
Date: July 10, 2025
Time: 5:00-8:00 pm
Location: Bali Hai Restaurant
Sponsered by Kyoto Maruhisa USA. Get ready for summer festivals and Bon Odori!
Date: July 12-13, 2025
Time: 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Location: Four Points by Sheraton, Montfield Room
This event is FREE.
Celebrate with Bowers Museum during our free family festivals held every first Sunday of the month in the Museum’s beautiful Key Courtyard. Enjoy live performances, art making, face painting and complimentary treats at every festival.
Date: July 13, 2025
Time: 11:00 am-3:00 pm
Location: Bowers Museum of Cultural Art
This event is FREE.
GCCCD Board President Debbie Justeson honored with 39th Senate District AANHPI Heritage Month Community Leader Award
June 26, 2025
June 2025
The Japanese Heritage will be honored at this Padres Baseball game vs. the LA Dodgers.
Date: Jun 11, 2025
Time: 6:40 pm
Location: Petco Park
This is a ticket purchased event.
The Filipino Heritage will be honored at this Padres Baseball game vs. the Nationals. Celebrate with a limited-edition bucket hat!
Date: Jun 24, 2025
Time: 6:40 pm
Location: Petco Park
This is a ticket purchased event.
Live Hawaiian music and hula dancing, vendors, ono grinds (food), cultural village, raffles and giveaways
Date: June 28-29, 2025
Time: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Location: NTC Park Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Rd, 92106
May 2025
Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
Did you know they were Asian?
Date: Month of May
Time: Library open hours
Location: Grossmont College Library, Building 70, Northside, South display case
In collaboration with First Year Experience, join us in celebrating AANHPI month.
Date: Tue, May 6
Time: 12:30-1:30 pm
Location: Griffin Gate
There is a free screening of NEW WAVE, the sold-out hit from SDAFF 2024 preseneted by Viet Voices.
Date: Thu, May 15
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: Ultrastar Cinemas Mission Valley
Please RSVP
In collaboration with First Year Experience, have fun decorating Photocards.
Date: Wed, May 21
Time: 12:00-2:00 pm
Location: Griffin Center, Building 60
Sound Healing
Date: Fri, May 23
Time: 1:15-1:45 pm
Location: Hyde Gallery
Asian Cultural Festival
Date: Sat, May 24
Time: 11:00 am
Location: Balboa Park
April 2025
March 2025
Celebrate Women's History Month!
Date: Sat, Mar 8 and Sun, Mar 9
Time: 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Location: Four Points by Sheraton, San Diego Montfield Room
FREE ADMISSION!
January/February 2025
Celebrate the Year of the Snake
January 29, 2025 to February 16, 2026
- The Snake symbolizes intellegence, wisdom and intuition.
- Chinese greeting: Kung Hei Fat Choy! Wishing a happy and prosperous new year to you!
- Korean greeting: Haengbokan Saehae Doeseyo! Have a happy new year!
- Japanese greeting: Akemashite omedetō gozaimasu! Happy New Year!
Dates/Times:
Jan 24, 2025 from 5:00-10:00 PM
Jan 25, 2025 from 11:00 AM-10:00 PM
Jan 26, 2025 from 11:00 AM-8:00 PM
Location:
Officer Jeremey Henwood Memorial Park
4455 Wightman St, 92105
SD Lunar New Year Festival is a 3-day celebration of the most important holiday in many Asian cultures. The festival will include folk and traditional performances, arts and cultural exhibitions, lion dances and firecrackers, and plenty of family fun activities for the kids. More importantly, the festival is inclusive and free.
Dates/Times:
Jan 31, 2025 from 5:00-10:00 PM
Feb 1, 2025 from 11:00 AM-10:00 PM
Feb 2, 2025 from 11:00 AM-9:00 PM
Location:
Preble Field, NTC Park Liberty Station
2640 Cushing Rd, 92106
Celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake! The San Diego TET Festival includes Entertainment Headliners, Dance Competitions, Performances, Attractions, and Carnival Rides ($). Admission is FREE.
Dates: Feb 15-16, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM-5:00 PM
Location: International Cottages Balboa Park
2191 Pan American Rd W, 92101
Celebrate the year of the Snake! Since 1935, the House of China has brought the beauty of Chinese culture to San Diego located at the International Cottages Balboa Park. Our annual Balboa Park Chinese New Year Fair is a time-honored tradition that brings together families and communities to celebrate with performances, food, and cultural displays. Admission is FREE.
November 2024
November 1-8, 2024
Grossmont's own Filipinx share their stories with the community.
Date: Oct 14-Nov 8, 2024
Time: Open Library Hours
Location: Bldg 70 Northside, Entrance Display
Filipino American History Month in October
October 1-31, 2024
Filipino American History Month Kick-Off
Date: Mon, Oct 7th
Time: UPDATED 2:00 p.m.
Location: Main Quad
Come and enjoy traditional Filipino cuisine and fly your flags.
This event is FREE.
Dolores Panel and Screening with Dr. Acosta and experts
Date: Wed, Oct 9th
Time: 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Location: Bldg 26-Room 220
Learn about the Filipinx Labor Movement and UFW in California.
This event is FREE.
In collaboration with Grossmont College's Creative Writing and English Departments, we celebrate Grossmont College's English Faculty and API Poet Daniela Sow newly launched poetry collection "Half Moon Rising".
Date: Thu, Oct 10th
Time: 2:00-3:20 p.m.
Location: Griffin Gate
Reading, Q&A and Filipino cuisine.
This event is FREE.
In collaboration with Grossmont College's SOGI (Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity) Club, the Latinx Alliance and Classified Professionals, the campus will celebrate National Coming Out Day
Date: Thu, Oct 10th
Time: 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Location: Main Quad
Games, prizes and food!
This event is FREE.
Grossmont's own Filipinx share their stories with the community.
Date: Oct 14-Nov 8, 2024
Time: Open Library Hours
Location: Bldg 70 Northside, Entrance Display
In collaboration with Grossmont College's Career Services, we welcome API professional Vincent Puu who will share a life in the Business Management, Economics, Accounting, Finance and Real Estate fields.
Date: Thu, Oct 15th
Time: 12:30-1:45 p.m.
Location: Bldg 60-Room 140 or Zoom
REGISTER
August 2024
There will be two API speakers on campus this week speaking at a Cypersecurity Workshop and IT Panel. Hosted by Grossmont College's Career Technical Education Workforce Development and Career Services, Guest speakers are Jennifer Cheung and Theresa Pon.
Date: Thu, Aug 22
Time: 11:00 am-12:30 pm
Location: Building 36 Room 241
Please register if you are interested.
June 2024
Congratulations to the Planning Committee who did an excellent job holding spring events on campus.
Date: Fri, Jun 28
Time: Noon
Location: Taegukgi Korean BBQ
[Photo]
Celebrating Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month
May 1-31, 2024
In partnership with the Pacific Health Partners, Ainahau O Kaleponi Hawaiian Civic Club, Ahahui Kiwila Hawaii O San Diego Civic Club and Ahahui O Liliokalani Hawaiian Civic Club of Southern California.
Date: Sun, Apr 21
Time: 10:00 am-1:00 pm (Hat Workshop)
2:00-5:00 pm (Wreath Workshop)
Location: Mission Valley, San Diego (Address confirm upon registration)
REGISTRATION: https://calendly.com/pihp
Supply Fee - Hat $55 and Wreath $40
In collaboration with Grossmont College English Department Creative Writing Program and Ethnic, Gender, Social Justice (EGSJ) Program.
Craig Santos Perez, Native CHamoru publisher, editor and poet.
Date: Mon, Apr 29
Time: 2:00-3:20 pm
Location: PVAC, Building 22
This event is FREE and funded by the Foundation for Grossmont and Cuyamaca Colleges (FGCC).
Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month LibGuide
Explore some of the books and streaming videos available to you in the library's collection. If you'd like to learn more about Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, please visit the official website.
Prominent Asian American Athletes Today
Date: May 3 - 31
Time: Library Open Hours
Location: Grossmont College Library, Building 70, 1st Floor Display
This event is FREE. This display includes our very own Asian American Griffin Athletes!
Japanese Origami - The art of paper folding: Come and transform a flat square sheet of paper into a finished crane to be displayed along the Library/Tech Mall windows.
Date: May 3 - 31
Location: Grossmont College Library, Building 70, 1st Floor, Table outside of Cafe/ Near the Tech Mall doors
This event is FREE.
Rock Painting "Spread Aloha and Kindness"
Date: May 3 - 31
Location: Grossmont College Library, Building 70, 1st Floor, the Zen Table
This event is FREE.
A collaboration with Grossmont College First-Year Experience:
Date: Mon, May 6
Time: 11:00 am-1:00 pm
Location: Main Quad
Join in the fun - Karaoke singing, 11:00 am K-Pop dance performance and 12:00 pm Indian dance performance! Try a Taste of Asia cuisine from L&L's.
This event is FREE.
API Guest Speaker Sheilah Cameron will share a day in the life of a licensed marriage and family therapist.
Date: Tue, May 7
Time: 11:00 am-12:30 pm
Location: Career Center 60-140
Lunch from Lady G's Canteen.
March/April 2024
Date: Mar 4-28
Location: Grossmont College Library, Building 70, 1st Floor
See [Photos]
This event is FREE.
Celebrate the Year of the Dragon
February 10, 2024 to January 28, 2025
- The Dragon symbolizes power, nobility, honor, luck and success.
- Chinese greeting: Kung Hei Fat Choy! Wishing a happy and prosperous new year to you!
- Korean greeting: Haengbokan Saehae Doeseyo! Have a happy new year!
- Japanese greeting: Akemashite omedetō gozaimasu! Happy New Year!
January/February 2024
Date: Dec 4-Jan 30
Location: Grossmont College Library, Building 70, 1st Floor
See [Photos]
This event is FREE.
Date: Sat, Feb 3
Time: 3:00 pm
Location: Mission Valley Library
This event is FREE.
Dates and Times: Fri, Feb 9 from 5:00-10:00 pm
Sat, Feb 10 from 11:00 am-10:00 pm
Sun, Feb 11 from 11:00 am-8:00 pm
Location: Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park
4455 Wightman Street, 92105
This event includes cherry blossom trees, giant lotus flowers, fruit & vegetable market, Asian zodiac, lanterns, dragon dance streamers, live entertainment, great selection of Asian food, and more.
FREE ADMISSION
Date: Wed, Feb 14
Time: 11:30 am-1:1 pm
Location: Main Quad
The Dragon and Lion Dance is back! There will also be martial arts performances too. Chinese food will be provided by the API Committee and sponsored by Grossmont College's Basic Needs Program.
This event is FREE.
[Flyer]
[Photos]
Date: Fri-Sun, Feb 16-18
Time: 4:00-10:00 pm
Location: Mira Mesa Community Park
This event is FREE.
Date: Sat, Feb 17
Time: 11:00 am
Location: World Foods Supermarket, 5245 El Cajon Blvd, 92115
This event is FREE and fun for all ages. Come early to get a front row seat.
Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit
January 22, 2023 to February 9, 2024
- The Rabbit is a symbal of longevity, peace and prosperity and 2023 is predicted to be a year of hope.
- Chinese greeting: Kung Hei Fat Choy! Wishing a happy and prosperous new year to you!
- Korean greeting: Haengbokan Saehae Doeseyo! Have a happy new year!
December 2023/January 2024
Asian Pacific Islander (API) Committee Meeting
Date: Tue, Dec 12
Time: 3:00 pm
Location: Zoom
- Help plan for an upcoming Lunar New Year celebration
- Let's kick start planning for May's Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander History Month
Asian Pacific Islander (API) Committee End-of-Semester Luncheon
Date: Sun, Dec 19
Time: Noon
Location: Olleh Convoy
[Photos]
Asian Pacific Islander (API) Committee Meeting
Date: Tue, Jan 16
Time: 3:00 pm
Location: Zoom
Year of the Dragon, let's go!
October is Filipino American History Month!
In collaboration with the Latinx Alliance of Grossmont College, Miramar College and San Diego Mesa College, please join us for a reading by Dr. Rudy P. Guevarra, author of Aloha Compadre: Latinx in Hawai'i. He is a Professor of Asian American Studies at Arizona State University. There will be time for a Q&A and book signing.
Date: Thu, Sep 21
Time: 2:00-3:20 pm
Location: Griffin Gate
Food will be served from Lady G's and sponsored by Basic Needs Services.
RSVP
Check out the Barong Tagalog and Filipinana: Filipino Attire to be on display for Filipino American History Month.
Date: Oct 9-26, 2023
Time: Library Open Hours
Location: Grossmont College Library, Building 70, 1st Floor
Join Dr. Catherine Sy Luib as she shares her speciality of Traditional Filipino Medicine - Native Hilot with Babaylan Dayang Guro (A healing demonstration and Babaylan Tea).
Date: Tue, Oct 10
Time: 12:00-1:00 pm
Location: The Library Living Room, 70-162
RSVP
In collaboration with Grossmont College Classified Senate and the Latinx Alliance of Grossmont College, come and celebrate National Coming Out Day at this semester's first student pop-up event.
Date: Wed, Oct 11
Time: 10:00 am-4:00 pm
Location: Main Quad
Filipino food will be provided by Tita's Kitchenette and sponsored by Basic Needs Services. There will be displays, games and prizes.
All are welcome!
Calling all speakers! Join us for an Open Mic session. Then stay for a feature from San Diego Poet Laureate Jason Magabo Perez.
Perez holds an MFA in writing and consciousness from New College of California, formerly in San Francisco, and a dual PhD in ethnic studies and communication from the University of California, San Diego. He is an author and performer of staged multimedia works. Currently he is an associate professor and director of ethnic studies at California State University San Marcos and is serving as poet laureate of San Diego from 2023 to 2024.
Date: Thu, Oct 19
Time: 11:00-12:30 p.m.
Location: The Library Living Room, 70-162
Desserts from All About Ube will be provided.
RSVP
Join us in watching "The Fabulous Filipino Brothers" written and directed by the talented Filipino-American Basco Family. The story is about four Filipino brothers as they go through life, love, break-ups, and hardships together, and is played by real-life brothers.
Date: Wed, Oct 25
Time: 4:30-6:30 pm
Location: The Library Living Room, 70-162
Filipino food will be provided by Lady G's.
RSVP
Join Alex Villafuerte, Executive Director of the Pacific Arts Movement, as he speaks about a career in Business or Economics. He is a Filipino-American and has been a prominent community organizer and advocate since 2016 through their work with many organizations advocating for the rights and building the capacity of marginalized, intersectional communities and individuals. Mr. Villafuerte is a proud alumni of San Diego State University receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Economics.
Date: Thu, Oct 26
Time: 11:00 am-12:30 pm
Location: Career Services, 60-140 & Zoom
Filipino food provided by Lady G's Cateen and sponsored by Basic Needs.
Samahan Filipino American Performing Arts & Education Center, Inc. presents Struck & Plucked: An evening of Rondalla & Kulintang music of the Philippines.
Date: Sat, Oct 28
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: Mingei International Museum
Admission: $25
September 2023 - Our Hearts are with Maui
Wildfires have devastated Lahaina, Pulehu and Upcountry on the island of Maui. Thankfully our members' ohanas are okay. The Committee is trying to find the best way to help in this time of need. In the meantime, here are some links to resources who are supporting the rescue efforts. We will try and update information as we receive them. Local Hawaii businesses are having a hard time shipping supplies to the affected areas so monetary donations from California are best right now.
Please continue to pray for the safety of the people, firefighters and responders.
- Hawaii Community Foundation - Maui Strong Disaster Relief
- Maui Food Bank
- Maui Humane Society
- Maui Red Cross
- Maui United Way
- Na Wahine Toa Foundation
June-August 2023
Celebrating the end of the school year with Karaoke and Lunch!
Date: Fri, Jun 2
Time: 4:00-6:00 pm
Location: The Library's "Living Room"
Lunch provided from Thai Thai Restaurant in Santee.
See photos.
Celebrating our API gradudates!
Date: Tue, Jun 6
Time: 4:00-6:00 pm
Location: Main Quad
Continuing our annual trek to our favorite Korean BBQ restaurant!
Date: Fri, Jun 30
Time: Noon
Location: Taegukgi Korean BBQ
Starting off the 2023-24 Academic Year early and strong...
Date: Tue, Aug 8
Time: 3:00-4:00 pm
Location: Zoom
Contact Grossmont.API@gcccd.edu if you need the Zoom link.
May 2023 - Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AANHPI)
Experiential workshop to explore our own internal oppression. Please come ready to share! This event is open to AAPI identifying students, faculty and staff.
Date: Tue, May 16
Date: Thu, May 25
Time: 2:00-3:00 pm
Location: Building 31 Room 129
Join the discussion over pizza and Pocari Sweat.
Details to come!
April 2023
February 2023
Date: Wed, Feb 01
Time: 11:00 am-1:00 pm
Location: Grossmont College Main Quad
The Committee is so happy to meet with many Griffins at the Week of Welcome Fair. We are looking forward to meeting more students and the community this semester.
See photos.
Experience the October 2022 Yet to Come Concert in Busan, South Korea on the big screen! The API Committee is sitting in E10-13. Bring your ARMY lightsticks and join the party!
Date: Sat, Feb 4th
Time: 3:00 pm showing
Location: Regal Mira Mesa ScreenX
Price: $30 per ticket
For photos.
Date: Wed, Feb 8th
Time: 11:30 am-1:00 pm
Location: Main Quad
Experience Chinese cuisine and Lunar New Year culture. Food sponsored by Grossmont College Basic Needs Program.
For photos.
January 2023
Lunar New Year Lion Dance and Firecracker Show
Date: Sat, Jan 28 at 11:00 am
Location: World Foods Supermarket, 5245 El Cajon Blvd.
2022 Filipino American History Month
Date: Tue, Oct 11
Time: 11:00 am-12:00 pm
Location: Library, Second Floor
Ronald Santiago Recaido is a visual artist, illustrator/graphic designer from San Diego, CA. On social media he posts work under the handle “The Kwento Thesis” and through his artwork shares observations and insights through the eyes of a first generation Filipino American who came of age in Southern California during the 80s and 90s. He studies history and believes it is important to document his own stories in order to pass gained knowledge on to future generations. Currently, he serves in the United States Navy and is stationed at Naval Base San Diego.
Sponsored by WACC.
Check out the Event's Photos
A Filipino Handaan of food and dance
Date: Tue, Oct 18
Time: 11:00 am-12:30 pm
Location: The Quad
Featured a dance performance by Melissa Adao, Instructor, Dance Department, Grossmont College, from 11:00-1:30 am. Sponsored by WACC.
Food from Tita's Kitchenette and sponsored by Grossmont College Basic Needs Program.
Check out the Event's Photos
- Christy Quiogue is a Filipino Educator and Talent Director for Tech San Diego.
- She obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Post-Secondary Educational Leadership from San Diego State University.
- Her career has spanned over 20 years in higher education within career services, campus activities, leadership programs, and diversity & inclusion at SDSU, UC San Diego and CSU San Marcos.
Date: Thu, Oct 27
Time: 12:00-1:00 PM
Location: Hyflex - 60-140 or online
Sponsored by Grossmont College Career Services and food sponsored by WACC.
Check out the Event's Photos
Movie Night "Easter Sunday" starring Filipino American comedian Jo Koy
Date: Thu, Oct 27
Time: 6:30-8:30 pm
Location: Griffin Gate
“Easter Sunday” is a feel-good family comedy about sibling rivalry, young love and the complicated dynamics of father-son and mother-son relationships in a Filipino American family. Snacks and drinks provided.
Food sponsored by WACC.
Check out the Event's Photos.
Checkout the Filipino American History Month Virtual Collection curated by the Grossmont College Library. Your library has a number of books and films available about Filipino Americans.
2022 Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Join us for some kid-friendly fun and games. "Squid Games" is based on a children's game in South Korea and the popular TV series.
Date: Wednesday, May 4th
Time: 11:00 AM-1:00 PM
Location: Main Quad
Please RSVP.
- Snacks and bottles of water will be provided.
- There will be prize giveaways.
- Waiver forms are need prior to playing tug-a-war.
Dr. Tajii is a 3rd generation Japanese American (Sansei) born and raised in Los Angeles County. He is a licensed clinical psychologist with experience in treating depression, anxiety, men’s issues, anger management, grief and loss, relationship issues, sex/porn addiction, behavioral health issues such as insomnia and chronic pain, and specializes in working with male-identified clients that struggle to connect, express emotions, and/or challenge masculinity stereotypes.
Dr. Tajii uses he/him/his pronouns.
Date: Tuesday, May 10th
Time: 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
Location: Zoom
Please RSVP.
Join us as we celebrate the music and accomplishments of BTS. Throught a presentation, learn about how they came to be one of the biggest music groups internationally with the most diverse fandom in the world and what impact they have on Asian repressentation in the music industry.
Date: Tuesday, May 10th
Time: 12:30-2:00 PM
Location: Zoom - Please RSVP.
Location: Griffin Gate - Please RSVP.
- Lunch and drinks will be provided.
- Freebies, prizes, and photo ops!
- Army! "We don't need permission to dance!" challenge
A Chinese family discovers their grandmother has only a short while left to live and decide to keep her in the dark, scheduling a wedding to gather before she dies.
Director: Lulu Wang
Starring: Awkwafina, Tzi Ma, Diana Lin, Zhao Shuzhen, Lu Hong, Jiang Yongbo
Date: Thursday, May 12th
Time: 6:00-8:00 PM
Location: Griffin Gate
Please RSVP
- Mochi popcorn and drinks provided.
- Come in your comfy pajamas and slippers!
THIS EVENT WAS CANCELLED.
- Joseph J. Chargualaf is from Guam.
- He obtained a Bachelor's Degree at Chaminade University in Hawaii and graduated from the Western Credit Union National Association Management School.
- In 1999, Mr. Chargualaf moved to California to pursue his career in financial institutions.
Date: Tuesday, May 17th
Time: 12:00-1:00 PM
Location: Zoom
E Komo Mai! Spend the day with us as we celebrate the Hawai'ian culture with hula dancing, lei kupe'e making, ukulele performance and lessons, spam musubi demonstration and "ono" Hawaiian kau kau (foods). Aloha!
Date: Wednesday, May 18th
Time: 8:00 AM-2:00 PM
Location: Griffin Gate
- 8:00 AM-2:00 PM: Lei kupe'e-making interactive workshop
- 8:00 AM-2:00 PM: Spam musubi-making demonstration with giveaway bags
- 10:00-11:00 AM: Ukulele performance and lessons with Anthony Ka'uka Stanley
- 12:00 PM: Hawaiian food served from Da Kine Catering
- 12:30 PM: Dance & song performance by Melinda Tuminting and Ho'okupu O Hawai'i
Please RSVP.
Celebrate the Year of the Tiger
February 1, 2022 - January 31, 2023
- San Diego Vietnamese Tet Festival - Feb. 4-6
- Lunar New Year @ The Village at Pacific Highlands Ranch - Feb. 5
- Annual Lunar New Year Lion Dance & Firecracker Show - Feb. 6
- Chinese New Year Festival @ Balboa Park - Feb. 19
- Chinese New Year by History.com
- Celebrating Lunary New Year: Year of the Tiger by CBS8
2022 is the Year of the Water Tiger.
- The Tiger is known as the king of all beasts in China and is associated with bravery, confidence and strength.
- May peace, strength and love surround you today and always.
2021 API Events
API Committee Luncheon
Friday, December 17
Taegukgi Korean BBQ House
[photo]
From left to right: Bryan, June, Nemie, Daniela, Ji Eun, Genie, Lisa and Rachel.
Filipina heroic journalist awarded Nobel Prize
Rappler CEO Maria Ressa full speech at the Nobel Prize awarding ceremony held on Friday, December 10, 2021.
AAPI Fall Courses
Filipino American History Month
Jose Antonio Vargas
Journalist, Filmmaker & Activist
Event cosponsored by the JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion) Council
Cooking together from our kitchens, on Zoom! We got your ingredients together for a Filipino-style adobe dish, and we built community, conversing while we went through the steps of making a delicious meal.
- The event was open to the GCCCD community
- Food sponsored by ASGC and provided by Tita's Kitchenette
- COVID-19 protocols were observed on campus
Event was live-streamed here: https://tinyurl.com/samahanshow
Check out our photos and videos.
Panelists:
Top row:
- Desmond Morente Ph.D, Counseling Faculty
- Daniela Sow, Assistant Professor, English
- Gabe Angcao, Grossmont College student
Bottom row:
- Alyssa Crisostomo, Grossmont College student
- Lisa Negre Brlas, Public Services Library Technician
Boba Chat
September 21, 2021
AAPI Week of Welcome
August 16, 2021
Meet some of our members who will be answering any questions about the AAPI linked courses below, the API Committee, and future events and involvement.
"The Meaning of AAPI" Panel Talk
August 13, 2021
Hosts: Desmond Morente and June Yang
Description: "In this presentation, we will consider what it means to be AAPI by considering the “Model Minority Myth.” We will examine a few classifications to help deconstruct this view that AAPI persons are a homogenous group whose members do not require attention. Academics, economics, cultural and communication tendencies are amongst those classifications to be discussed. This session is intended to promote a more accurate understanding of who our AAPI students are and how we as faculty and staff can assist their success with student support services and in the classroom."
API Committee Social Hour
May 21, 2021
The Committee celebrated our successful API month as well as shared our best wishes to Lorena Nava Ruggero as she leaves Grossmont College to become Director of Communications for The San Diego Foundation. We will miss you, Lorena! Aloha!
AAPI Heritage Month Event Series
Ukulele Music Workshop
May 25, 2021
Watch the RECORDING
Career Networking With Asian American Pacific Islanders
May 18, 2021
List of CAREERS WITH AAPI
Dr. Desmond Morente presents Dismantling Racism to the Governing Board
May 18, 2021
Author E. L. Shen's Reading and Q&A
May 12, 2021
Watch the RECORDING
"Day in the Life" featuring Sheilah Cameron, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
May 11, 2021
Watch the RECORDING
AAPI Read-In
May 4, 2021
Watch the RECORDING
"Good AAPI Eats!"
Month of May 2021
Check our RECIPES
COVID-19: An Attack on the Asian Community
April 21, 2021 
Moderators: Dr. June Yang, Grossmont College Associate Professor and Chair of Philosophy, and Dr. Desmond Morente, Grossmont College Counselor
Here is the PRESENTATION RECORDING.
Combating Anti-Asian American Racism: Art, Activism & Healing
Moderator: Dr. Desmonte Morente, Grossmont College Counselor
Panelists: Rei Lo, Artist; Kari Okubo, Social Director - Hate is a Virus; Ji Eun Ko, Grossmont College Counselor; and Shinyung Oh, Therapist & Attorney
Here is the PANEL DISCUSSION RECORDING.
Boba Chats
Filipinx Policy Symposium
COVID 19: An Attack on the Asian Pacific Islander Community
January 25, 2021
Hosted by Desmond Morente, Counselor and June Yang, Associate Professor of Philosophy, during Flex Week
February 20, 2020: Top faculty lauded at Grossmont College
Learn about how English instructor Daniela Sow is a leader at Grossmont College! She
was awarded the President's Leadership Award for her work in celebrating and honoring
the history and contributions of the Asian Pacific Islander community, and those of
mixed race descent.
"Being a teacher, serving our community college students, is my ultimate joy."
- Daniela Sow
#leadership #diversity
May 20, 2020: Celebrate Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month with Cedrice Webber
October is Filipinx American History Month!
October 8, 2020: Asian Pacific Islander Committee Social Hour, "Aloha Melissa"
October 19, 2020: Pilipinx American History Workshop, "Pilipinx Colonialism and Experiences" by Desmond Merente
October 23, 2020: Filipinx American History Cooking Demo, "Filipino Fusion Cuisine" by Kris Saradpon
Smoked Chicken Adobo by Kris Saradpon and Grossmont College Culinary Arts
October 29, 2020: Filipinx American History Book Club with Daniela Sow and June Yang
May 2019: Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Grossmont College hosted a series of events starting with a May 1st campus mixer and continuing through May 16 with lectures, dance, food trucks and more.
This marks the second year that Grossmont College, with a nearly 10 percent enrollment of Asians and Pacific Islanders, is paying homage to the generations who have added to the nation's rich tapestry and continue to contribute to its multicultural success. The events are coordinated by the API Student Club and API Committee, and sponsored by the World Arts and Cultures Committee and Student Affairs. The events was free and open to the public.
Wednesday, May 1:
- 1-3 p.m.: A kickoff mixer for API students, faculty and staff in the Student Center Common Ground, Bldg. 60, Room 206
Monday, May 13:
- 9:30-10:45 a.m.: "The Model Minority Myth" lecture and discussion by May Fu, Ph.D., chair and associate professor of Ethnic Studies at University of San Diego, in Griffin Gate, Bldg. 60
Tuesday, May 14:
- 9:30-10:45 a.m.: "The Things We Don't Talk About: API Identity, Roots, Celebrations and Struggles" by Kirin Macapugay, assistant professor of Human Services at San Diego City College and founder of the local nonprofit Asian Pacific Islander Community Actions, in Griffin Gate, Bldg. 60
- Noon-12:45 p.m.: Japanese Fashion Show and Dance by the San Diego Kimono Club in the Main Quad
- 2-3 p.m.: Buddhism talk with Interfaith Chaplain Noriko Kawai in Griffin Gate, Bldg. 60
Wednesday, May 15:
- 10-11 a.m.: Tinikling Dance, the traditional Philippine folk dance utilizing bamboo poles, by Boone Elementary School in the Main Quad
- 11 a.m.-noon: Indian dance by Rudraprasad Swain in the Main Quad
- 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: API food trucks and vendors in the Main Quad
Thursday, May 16:
- 9:30-10:45 a.m.: "Mental Health and Racial Micro-aggressions in the API Community" panel discussion led by Judy Patacsil, professor/counselor and international education coordinator at Miramar College, co-author of "Filipinos in San Diego" and immediate past president of the Filipino American National Historical Society, in Griffin Gate, Bldg. 60
The commemoration of API Heritage originally began in 1978 when a joint resolution signed by President Jimmy Carter designated the first 10 days of May as Asian/Pacific Heritage Week. These dates were chosen to mark two important anniversaries: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in part by Chinese laborers on May 10, 1869. In 1990 President George H. W. Bush expanded the commemoration to the entire month.
May 2018: Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month
