Celebrating Community and Culture in August

August was a month filled with meaningful connections and vibrant celebrations at the Rizal Center. Each gathering highlighted the strength of our community and the richness of our culture.

Welcoming the MOSAAIC Study

We were thrilled to host the MOSAAIC Study right here at the Rizal Center. This initiative allowed participants to take part while the University of Chicago healthcare team conducted all necessary lab work on-site. It’s an incredible opportunity that brings valuable resources directly to our community.

A Vibrant Tiyangge Day

Another highlight was Tiyangge Day, held in partnership with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s PSA Barkada Group. This annual tradition brought together lively performances, small business vendors, and a strong sense of camaraderie—all while raising funds to support the Rizal Center. The energy and spirit were truly inspiring!

4th OPM Open Mic Night

On August 17th, we celebrated our 4th OPM Open Mic session, organized by Sama Sama Project and Sona Umbra. With delicious food generously sponsored by CIRCA Pintig, the event gave local artists a platform to shine while also inviting participants to enjoy mahjong and connect over shared interests.

Looking Ahead: Filipino American History Month

August also set the stage for our upcoming Filipino American History Month celebration in October. Artists and community members gathered to plan with The Halo-Halo Project and the Chicago Public Library. Stay tuned—exciting details are on the way!

Tagalog Class Graduation & Community Meal

We proudly closed out our summer Tagalog class with a joyful graduation ceremony, where students received their certificates. The day ended with a community meal hosted by CIRCA Pintig, featuring a traditional kamayan feast—a beautiful reminder of the power of food to bring people together.

Capturing the Moments

From study initiatives to celebrations, each event in August was a testament to our vibrant and united community. I’ve included photo albums documenting these gatherings so you can relive the joy, pride, and connections we shared.