In a symbolic gesture marking a significant investment in New York’s Filipino American community, United States Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) presented a $1.6 million federal grant designated to establish a community center for Filipino Americans in Queens. The announcement, celebrated by local leaders, advocates, and members of the community, took place in the heart of Little Manila in Woodside, highlighting the promise of a dedicated space for unity, culture, and support.
As the event unfolded, Meng underscored the importance of the Filipino American community in New York and beyond. “Thank you so much for the love and care of our Filipino American community, not just here in Queens, but all throughout the state and country,” Meng said. “The Filipino American community continuously and constantly gives its heart to our city, our state, and our country, and it has been through a lot in the last few years with the COVID-19 pandemic.” She went on to acknowledge the sacrifices made by Filipino Americans, especially frontline workers during the pandemic, and recognized the historic election of Assembly Member Steven Raga, New York’s first Filipino American in the state legislature.
Meng shared how the idea for a community center came about. “A little over a year ago, we got notice of this opportunity, and I texted Steven, our newest Assembly Member, saying we may have some money. Tell me what to do with it. Steven said, ‘The community doesn’t have a center.’” Reflecting on this need, she continued, “It’s a symbol that we are standing outside. It’s a beautiful mural, but we are on a sidewalk, outdoors, because our community doesn’t have a place to meet. Our next generation, our children, our future leaders—they deserve more.”
This investment comes not only as a financial commitment but as a deeply symbolic gesture, underscoring the importance of a permanent gathering space for the community. Rachelle Ocampo, President of naffaa New York, spoke to this vision as she addressed attendees alongside her executive team and her young daughter. “This $1.6 million in federal funds is not just a financial investment. It represents hope, growth, and the promise of a brighter future for Filipino Americans in New York,” Ocampo said. “Together, we are building a vibrant, multicultural community center that will serve as a source of empowerment, unity, and cultural pride for generations to come.”
Ocampo emphasized that the center is intended to be a safe haven for resources, education, and community—a long-overdue space where Filipino Americans and their neighbors can connect, share, and thrive. She acknowledged the support of local and national leaders, including naffaa’s national president-elect Ryan Namata, Vice Consul Cathe Aguilar, and a host of community leaders spanning sectors such as health, education, business, and the arts.
Assembly Member Steven Raga also addressed the crowd, expressing pride in the community’s resilience and the broader support shown by Queens’ diverse populations. “We’re here because the power of community came together—not just within the Filipino community, but also from the AAPI community and other communities here who understand the need for a shared space,” Raga said. “This investment shows that we are not being ignored, we are not being left behind, and we are a community that deserves a place to gather.”
The $1.6 million grant was heralded as a victory for the Filipino American community, which has long sought a dedicated community center in Queens. Leaders at the event highlighted the broader implications of the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act, legislation aimed at addressing the rise in hate crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders during the pandemic. Meng, a key advocate for this legislation, emphasized that a community center would be a haven against such adversities and a space where Filipino Americans can proudly showcase their heritage and history.
“We are grateful for the leadership of Congress Member Meng and the vision of naffaa New York in advancing equity for Filipino American communities,” said Ryan Namata, President-elect of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations. “We believe that this historic investment sets a precedent of a blueprint for state and federal government officials to follow in diversifying how resources are allocated to the over 4.3 million Filipinos across the country.”
The event culminated with calls for continued collaboration among local leaders, federal representatives, and community advocates. “Our children, our future leaders, they deserve more,” Meng said. “We need a place for the Filipino American community to come together—not just to congregate, but to share their culture, to share their heart—not just among themselves, but with the entire community.”
This historic investment will provide a physical space where Filipino Americans can celebrate their heritage, find support, and continue building a legacy of unity and cultural pride in New York City.
