Los Angeles, 6 September 2011 – The Los Angeles City Council, through the sponsorship of Councilmember Richard Alarcon, passed two (2) resolutions supporting Assembly Bill (AB) 199: The Filipinos in World War (WW) II Social Studies Curriculum Act; and, Assembly Resolution (AJR) 6: The Filipino Veterans Fairness Act of 2011.

The resolutions aim to recognize the role of Filipinos during WWII in history text books in the U.S. and reinstatement of benefits for Filipino Veterans of World War II

AB199 is the first step towards ensuring that social science instruction in grades 7-12 to include the significant role of Filipinos in WWII.  AJR6 is a support resolution that encourages Congress and the President of the United States to enact House Resolution 210, “Filipino Veterans Fairness Act of 2011”, authored by Congresswoman Jackie Speier.

Photo shows Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon addressing the Council.  In background are members of the Filipino-American community.

Photo shows Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon, City Council President Eric Garcetti, Councilmember Richard Alarcon, and members of the Filipino-American community pose for a souvenir shot after the City Council presentations.