Fil-Am Community in Carson Honors Dr. José Rizal’s Legacy at Annual Celebration

Members of the Filipino American community, joined by Councilmember Jim Dear, celebrated the 164th birth anniversary of Dr. José Rizal in Carson. Photo Credit: Nikki Arriola

The Filipino American community gathered at the City of Carson’s International Sculpture Garden on June 19 to commemorate the 164th birth anniversary of Dr. José Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero. The annual event, held in partnership with local civic leaders and Filipino American organizations, brought together city officials, residents, students, and advocates in a celebration of heritage and civic pride.

Dr. Enrique B. de la Cruz, Ph.D., Commissioner on the Los Angeles Civil & Human Rights Commission and professor emeritus at CSUN, served as guest speaker during the José Rizal Day celebration in Carson. Photo Credit: Nikki Arriola

Dr. Enrique B. de la Cruz, Ph.D., served as the event’s guest speaker. He is a Commissioner on the Los Angeles Civil & Human Rights Commission and a professor emeritus of Asian American Studies at California State University, Northridge (CSUN). His presence underscored the continuing relevance of Rizal’s ideals—education, civic responsibility, and peaceful reform—for Filipino Americans today.

The event remains a cornerstone celebration for the community in Carson. Organized with support from the City of Carson and Filipino American civic groups, the annual Rizal Day observance continues to honor Rizal’s enduring message of justice, reform, and national pride.

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