Event Recap: Filipino Americans for NYC’s Future

Photos by Charles Drucker

Last Friday, the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY) hosted Filipino Americans for NYC’s Future at Kalye Rivington, a Filipino restaurant in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Council Member Julie Won, Assemblymember Harvey Epstein, State Senator Brian Kavanagh, and dozens of community members gathered to celebrate Filipino American History Month and build momentum toward the 2025 NYC general elections next month.

Assemblymember Harvey Epstein, one of FADCNY’s endorsed candidates, said it was an honor to join the club in celebration of Filipino American History Month and to be recognized among its endorsed slate. He praised the organization’s work to engage the community in civic life and advance representation across New York, saying, “I look forward to our continued work together to serve our community with heart, advocacy, and a vision for a more just and united city.”

The evening also marked a milestone for FADCNY, which unveiled its refreshed branding alongside a clearer articulation of the principles guiding its work. FADCNY President Michelle Amor said the club’s growth over the past two years made this the right time to solidify its identity and purpose. “This was a moment to reflect on why we do this work and how we carry it forward,” Amor said. “It’s about presenting ourselves with the same clarity and purpose that define the community we represent.”

The new visual identity and merchandise were designed by Paulo Tonn, who described his inspiration: “For Fil Am Dems’ new identity, we took cues from classic New York symbols and landmarks. The torch icon composed with the Grand Central typeface shows respect for the city we love.”

The event was also supported by Dear Flor, a Filipina-owned business inspired by Filipino flavors and culture, which served as the evening’s Advocate Sponsor. Dear Flor Co-Founder & CEO Lisa Reid also provided remarks during the program, sharing her company’s story and connection to the community.

Proceeds from the event will go toward advancing Filipino American power and visibility in New York politics, with portions supporting campaigns for FADCNY’s 2025 endorsed candidates in the general election. Adam Lee, an FADCNY member and founding executive board member of the new Latino Democrats of NYC, noted that the event reflected the organization’s continued growth and reach. "It is amazing how the club continues to grow in its mission by bringing those of Filipino heritage and influence together to engage with elected officials, campaigns, and organizations," Lee said. "I am proud to be a member and excited to see what more the Fil Am Dems will achieve."

Looking ahead, FADCNY will host a Day of Action for Eve Cho Guillergan on Saturday, November 2, the final day of early voting, to help elect her as the first Filipina judge in New York City, running for Civil Court Judge, Queens Municipal Court, District 2. The club will also announce upcoming photo bank sessions for newly endorsed candidates Juleigh Chin, running for Nassau County Legislator, District 9, and Ben Chou, running for New York City Council, District 19. FADCNY will continue co-sponsoring events with Filipinos for Zohran to build collective power leading into Election Day.

Together, these efforts carry forward the momentum from the night and reflect FADCNY’s ongoing commitment to building Filipino American representation and political power across New York.