This thesis investigates Filipino American history through the poetry of Kenneth Zamora Damacion, a Filipino American poet and my father.

Following his unexpected death, I sought to deepen my understanding of our heritage, leading me to rediscover his poetry, which offers profound insights into our family's emotional and cultural dynamics—topics I had largely overlooked in my youth. Through an examination of his life and autobiographical poems, this study connects me with my Filipino American roots and sheds light on broader themes within Filipino American history and culture.

I focus on how my father's work captures the experiences of early Pinays and Pinoys, particularly addressing themes of labor, longing, and otherness. His intimate style invites readers from diverse backgrounds to engage with Filipino American experiences. By situating his poetry within relevant historical and cultural contexts, this thesis aims to validate Filipino American culture, challenging degrading narratives often associated with our identity. I argue that increased research and visibility in Filipino American studies are essential for fostering understanding and sensitivity, ultimately advocating for the amplification of Filipino American voices and experiences to shape cultural identity and collective consciousness.

Ultimately, this work serves as a call to action to amplify Filipino American voices and experiences, emphasizing the importance of representation and appreciation in shaping cultural identity and collective consciousness.