Homeward Bound to an Avenue of Rich Culture and Excellence
Philippine Independence Parade Madison Avenue, New York
On the 6 train, I was deep in my thoughts on what I should capture in the Philippines’ Independence celebration. I was contemplating on what is essential to me as a Filipino who chose to work in the Big Apple. Do I deserve to make a video about it knowing I have been out of touch with my culture for a long time? Would I sound credible to talk about Filipino customs that I do not observe regularly? Why do I have doubts that I feel like a lost “Pinay”; stranger to the heritage I was born and raised with when I decided to live in another country?
I was at Madison Avenue with my reliable director. While he was recording parts of the parade of Filipinos proudly waving the flag, I was at the back too shy to even talk to my fellow countrymen. I heard them speak in my native tongue which was an irony to my lips laden already with the New York “Twalk”. It was indicative that the day would be hopeless for me. Suddenly, my Hispanic Director called me to go in front to catch a better view of the parade. In truth, I was …..to continue reading, visit www.filteany.com
