Enzo Manzano, FADCNY president, takes a selfie with attendees | Contributed Photo
NEW YORK—In partnership with the Filipino Americans for Harris Walz (FAFHW) and Taiwanese Americans for Progress, the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY) raised over $14,000 at a fundraising concert last week.
Hosted by Loida Nicolas Lewis, philanthropist and pillar of the Filipino community, the fundraising concert brought their attendees in-person and via virtual platforms. The funds raised through small-dollar grassroots donations will support New York State Assemblymember Steven Raga’s re-election campaign and State Senator Iwen Chu, including FADCNY and FAFHW’s critical efforts to mobilize members and volunteers for key voter outreach activities locally and nationally.
The concert featured performances by Filipino American Broadway stars Renee Albulario (Here Lies Love), Emily Borromeo (School of Rock), Liz Casasola (Imelda: A New Musical), co-founder of Broadway Barkada, a collective of Filipino American professional performing artists, and Lora Nicolas Olaes, co-producer of Here Lies Love, along with acclaimed Taiwanese American singer-songwriter Vienna Teng. Each artist inspired the audience through their art and advocacy, conveying strong community and political engagement messages.
“I am so proud of the incredible energy we witnessed at the Do Something for Freedom Concert. Our diverse audience gave standing ovations to the performers and showed passionate support for the growing AAPI political power,” said Joel Dabu, chair of the Host Committee and active member and volunteer with the FADCNY and FAFHW. “The message was clear: when we lift one, we lift the entire community.”
Doing Something for Freedom: Building AAPI Political Power
Chu, the first Asian American woman elected to the New York State Senate, highlighted the urgency of her re-election campaign. She faces a tight race against a Republican challenger. Chu represents one of the state’s most diverse districts, with 50% of AAPI residents. At the last elections, she won by just 500 votes.
Filipino American Assemblymember Raga attended the event and commented on his competitive re-election bid. His leadership has been crucial in advancing the interests of the Filipino community. Through his efforts, Raga helped secure $1.6 million in federal funding for a community center in Queens—the most significant federal grant ever awarded to a Filipino organization in New York State.
“Steven made history, but what’s truly remarkable is the impact he continues to have. We’ve seen firsthand now the difference it makes to have someone in office who knows our community, understands our challenges, and represents us,” said Michelle Amor, vice president of FADCNY and FAFHW national communications co-director. “It’s critical that we support his re-election so that he can continue the momentum.”
FADCNY’s Growing Role in Local Voter Mobilization
In addition to hosting key fundraisers like the Do Something for Freedom Concert, FADCNY has been significantly expanding its role in voter mobilization. It is now the lead Democratic club organizing the Queens Blue Bus initiative, a voter mobilization effort in partnership with Meng, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and over ten other Queens-based elected officials and Democratic clubs. The initiative focuses on mobilizing Queens Democrats to canvass in battleground states and districts crucial for securing Democratic wins locally and nationally on election day, November 5.
FADCNY also recently partnered with Meng for voter registration drives last month, further showcasing its commitment to empowering voters and expanding civic participation within the AAPI and Filipino American communities.
Enzo Manzano, president of FADCNY, reflected on the broader impact of the organization. “We are playing a crucial role in this election, not just through events like this concert, but through a range of voter mobilization efforts that are making a difference at both the local and national levels,” he said. “We are building a movement that extends beyond election day, ensuring that Filipino voices remain strong and influential in shaping the future of our communities and the country,” added Manzano.
FADCNY’s efforts during this election season highlight the organization’s growing influence in New York politics and beyond. It empowers Filipino Americans and broader AAPI communities to take an active role in shaping the political landscape.
The evening was a powerful reminder of the importance of electing candidates who champion AAPI communities and secure Democratic victories.
–With Jay Domingo and Ricky Rillera/PDM
