Collective Memory and Historical Consciousness in our Midst

A Past Revisited, Connecting the Dots, part 16

Collective Memory and Historical consciousness in our midst

My recent Facebook series examines the significance of monuments and movements, as well as the role of markers and those who shape collective memory. This series is aligned with my ongoing project, "Collective Memory in Motion: Reframing Monuments, Markers, and Movements." The purpose is to build momentum for the upcoming month, which holds historical resonance for Filipinos. August is notable for its revolutionary events, political milestones, and commemorative practices that have shaped the Filipino national consciousness.

Reflecting on my upbringing in San Fernando, Pampanga, I recall frequent journeys to Manila during which we would pass the prominent Bonifacio Monument in Balintawak. For many, this monument serves as an early introduction to Filipino history, though its full meaning may not be immediately apparent to young observers.

Now, seven decades later and residing in San Francisco amid the Trump era, I am compelled to revisit and reinterpret the narratives surrounding monuments and public memory. My aim is to cultivate a movement centered on fostering historical consciousness and a shared sense of identity. As articulated in part 14 of my Facebook series: “WE ARE HERE, BECAUSE YOU WERE THERE! NANDITO KAMI KASI DUMAYO KAYO SA AMIN!”

A Filipino proverb encapsulates these values: "Ang taong hindi marunong tumingin sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paroonan," translated as "A person who does not know how to look back at where they came from will not reach their destination." This saying, often imparted by elders when community members depart for new experiences, underscores the importance of remembering one’s origins. Expressions such as “Huwag kang makakalimot” (“Do not forget”), “Babalik ka” (“You will return”), and “huwag kang magbabago” (“Do not change”) serve as reminders to uphold these connections.

The concept of "kapwa"—central to Filipino culture—represents shared identity and interconnectedness. It highlights the dynamic relationship between "loob" (inner self), "labas" (outward action), and the broader community. This interplay promotes solidarity, community well-being, and an alignment between internal values and external behavior.

It is important to note that admonitions like “huwag kang magbabago” are nuanced; rather than discouraging growth, they caution against losing touch with one's core values and communal bonds. Conversely, the phrase “iba ka na” can signal estrangement from the collective when a shift in values or actions disrupts mutual understanding, whereas “hindi ka iba” reaffirms belonging.

Longing for one’s former home and establishing a sense of belonging in a new environment are intertwined experiences that deepen collective memory and historical awareness. Longing evokes a connection to heritage, while belonging fosters acceptance within a community.

In summary, I propose a reframed version of the familiar proverb: "Ang taong tumatangging alalahanin ang pinanggalingan ay paulit-ulit maliligaw sa daraanan," which translates to "A person who refuses to remember where they came from will repeatedly get lost along the way." This perspective emphasizes the necessity of acknowledging one’s origins and heritage, advocating for the cultivation of historical consciousness as essential guidance for navigating life, including the immigrant experience in America.