Filipino Vets, Allies March for Justice 70 Years after Broken U.S. Promises
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Filipino Vets, Allies March for Justice 70 Years after Broken U.S. Promises
Seventy years ago, Filipino veterans of the U.S. military had their compensation for serving during World War II revoked by the Rescission Act of 1946. While some concessions have been made by the government since then, several hundred people are expected to march in Hollywood today to rally for full restoration of compensation for the veterans affected.
Organized by Justice for Filipino American Veterans (JFAV) — a national alliance of Filipino veterans organizations and other advocates — the march is meant to serve as a reminder to ensure the sacrifices made by Filipinos during World War II aren’t forgotten.
“We want to keep the torch alive,” Arturo Garcia, JFAV national coordinator, told NBC News. “That’s why we bring the march to Hollywood, so some people will learn about it.”
During World War II, more than 250,000 Filipinos were enlisted into the U.S. military and promised health and pension benefits identical to that of other American soldiers. However, the Rescission Act of 1946 voided the veterans of their benefits.
Garcia said JFAV has been lobbying for restoring the benefits for the last 25 years. Friday marks the 16th march JFAV has held. JFAV’s marches have had anywhere between 600 to 800 participants, Garcia said, and this year’s is expected to include many students.
Since JFAV began advocating for Filipino-American veterans, they have received incremental benefits, Garcia said, among which include an option to be buried at a national cemetery, receiving military honors, and getting treatment at Department of Veteran Affairs medical facilities.
