AG Letitia James at the Swearing-In of the 119th Congressional Black Caucus on January 3, 2025 | Photo by Maryland GovPics via Wikimedia Commons
NEW YORK — Filipino American cultural and community organizations in New York City — Ma‑Yi Theater Company and Woodside on the Move — each received $1.5 million to expand arts, educational, and community‑based programming. The funding comes from the dissolution of a long‑standing charity that previously served Filipino New Yorkers, with state law requiring that remaining assets be redirected to organizations with similar missions.
Funds Redirected to Strengthen Filipino Cultural Institutions
In announcing the grants, Attorney General Letitia James emphasized the importance of ensuring that charitable assets continue to serve their intended communities.
“I am proud to announce $3 million in grants to support two organizations serving the Filipino community and all New Yorkers,” James said. “When a charitable organization closes its doors, it is imperative that its remaining assets are dedicated to continuing its mission.”
The Attorney General’s Office (OAG) selected Ma‑Yi Theater Company and Woodside on the Move after reviewing their long histories of providing cultural, educational, and community services to Filipino and Asian American residents across New York City.
Ma‑Yi Theater Company: Expanding Filipino American Arts
Ma‑Yi Theater Company — founded in 1989 and nationally recognized for developing and producing works by Asian American playwrights — will use its $1.5 million grant to expand theater productions, youth workshops, and statewide cultural programming.
Ralph B. Peña, Producing Artistic Director of Ma‑Yi Theater, expressed deep gratitude for the award:
“Ma‑Yi Theater Company is deeply grateful to Attorney General Letitia James and the Office of the Attorney General for this extraordinary grant,” Peña said. “We are proud to accept this support and pledge to use it to expand cultural and educational programs that serve Filipino American communities across New York State.”
The organization is expected to broaden its reach beyond Manhattan, offering more community‑based arts programs and partnerships with schools and cultural institutions.
Woodside on the Move: Strengthening Little Manila and Community Services
Woodside on the Move — a Queens‑based nonprofit with more than five decades of service — will also receive $1.5 million to expand culturally grounded programs, educational initiatives, and social services for Filipino New Yorkers, particularly in Little Manila in Woodside.
Executive Director William Jourdain highlighted the significance of the investment:
“With five decades of deep roots in Woodside, we are honored to be entrusted by the Office of the Attorney General with this investment in the Filipino community,” Jourdain said. “This funding allows us to expand culturally grounded programs, strengthen educational opportunities, and deliver vital services that ensure Filipino New Yorkers are seen, supported, and celebrated.”
The organization plans to enhance youth programs, cultural events, tenant support services, and small‑business assistance — all core components of its mission.
Community Leaders Welcome the Grants
Assemblymember Steven Raga, the first Filipino American elected to the New York State Legislature, praised the Attorney General’s decision:
“As a Filipino American and the son of immigrants, I know how vital it is for our communities to see ourselves reflected in the arts, in our history, and in the institutions that serve us,” Raga said.
He noted that the grants will help sustain and grow Filipino cultural identity in New York City, particularly in Queens, home to one of the largest Filipino populations on the East Coast.
Other Communities Receiving Grants
According to the Attorney General’s announcement, these two Filipino organizations are the sole recipients of the $3 million allocation tied to this specific dissolved charity. No other communities or organizations were awarded funds under this particular action.
