THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, May 3, 1996 TAG: 9605010135
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON PAGE: L02 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY GARY EDWARDS, CORRESPONDENT
LENGTH: Short : 46 lines
Dr. Allan Bergano said that growing up in Seattle, the son of Filipino immigrants, left him confused about his identity.
There were no pictures of Filipinos in his textbooks; no mention of Filipino culture or contributions.
Bergano, a Virginia Beach dentist, mentioned that Seattle always ranks in the top of America's best cities.
The city has a reputation as an enlightened community, a city that appreciates diversity. Despite that, Bergano said he still felt a sense of loss about his heritage.
Then he held up two books, recent titles that trumpeted Filipino achievements, and a smile crossed his face as he held them aloft.
The founder and president of the Hampton Roads Chapter of the Filipino-American National Historical Society, Bergano delivered the welcoming address at a reception Sunday for about 100 people in the Central Library auditorium.
The event, in partnership with city public schools, was held to introduce the organization to new School Superintendent Timothy R. Jenney, who spoke on the value of multicultural education.
Jenney cited three processes vital to the success of education in the world of the '90s.
``We must accept each other,'' said Jenney.
``We must provide access for all people to the best education they can receive. And we must trust each other.''
Several Filipino students from Salem High School offered readings about their heritage.
Ferdinand Tolentino, a member of the School Board, talked about his membership on the board and the opportunity it offers to give the city's large Filipino population a voice. ILLUSTRATION: Photo
Dr. Allan Bergano
Dentist is son of Filipino immigrants
by CNB