On October 19, 2024, the History Colorado Center was alive with color, culture, and community as it hosted a FilAm History Month celebration. This special event brought together Filipino-American artists, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate the rich contributions of Filipinos in America, while reflecting on the resilience and achievements of Filipinas and Filipino-Americans through art and history. Filipina American sculptor lawyer Elaine Antonio Bordeaux, showcased her inspiring work, which centers on women empowerment and addressing the issue of underrepresentation of women in history.

Elaine Antonio Bordeaux, a distinguished Filipino-American artist and lawyer, presented two iconic bronze sculptures that captivated attendees: one honoring the legendary tattoo artist and cultural icon Apo Whang Od, and the other commemorating the heroic Magdalena Leones, a World War II intelligence officer and the only Filipina to receive the Silver Star for bravery. Both sculptures offered powerful reminders of the strength, beauty, and courage of Filipina women.

Honoring Filipina Icons: Apo Whang Od and Magdalena Leones

Antonio Bordeaux’s sculpture of Apo Whang Od, the last traditional Kalinga tattoo artist (mambabatok) from the Philippines, highlighted the artist’s mission to preserve and celebrate indigenous Filipino heritage. Apo Whang Od, at over a hundred years old, embodies the endurance of Filipino culture and art, as well as the tenacity of women who hold and pass down cultural wisdom through generations. Bordeaux’s sculptural tribute captured the intricate spirit and beauty of this living legend, resonating deeply with both young and older audiences at the event.

Her second sculpture, a powerful depiction of Magdalena Leones, reminded everyone of the courage Filipina women have shown in times of adversity. Leones, often referred to as “The Lioness of Filipino Intelligence,” played a vital role in the fight against Japanese occupation during World War II. Elaine Antonio Bordeaux’s sculpture of Leones brought her story to life, standing as a symbol of Filipina resilience and bravery that has often been left out of mainstream historical narratives.

Empowering Women Through Art

Elaine Antonio Bordeaux’s participation in the FilAm History Month celebration was more than an artistic display; it was a purposeful mission to empower women and spark conversations about gender equality in the way history is told. By sharing the stories of remarkable Filipina women, Bordeaux highlighted the fact that too often, women’s achievements are underrecognized or altogether omitted in historical accounts. Her work aims to shed light on these overlooked heroes, bringing visibility to women who have shaped history yet remain outside the spotlight.

This theme of empowerment resonated across the event, inspiring other artists and attendees to reflect on the contributions of women, especially within the Filipino community, whose rich legacies have historically been marginalized. Bordeaux’s sculptures served as focal points that fueled conversations about the need for more representation of women in art, education, and public memory.

A Day of Celebration and Reflection

The Fil-Am History Month event at History Colorado Center also featured performances, historical exhibits, and cultural showcases, celebrating the diversity of Filipino-American experiences and contributions in the United States. It was participated by various organizations in Colorado such as NaFFAA Region V, FACC, Dr. Jose Rizal Legacy International Foundation, Fil-Am Community of Southern Colorado, PASCO and others. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in discussions and workshops, further enriching their understanding of Filipino heritage. Antonio Bordeaux’s sculptures stood as powerful representations of the dual purpose of the event: celebrating the Filipino identity while pushing for a future where women’s stories are given their rightful place in history.

Elaine Antonio Bordeaux’s commitment to using art as a tool for women empowerment left a lasting impact on all who attended, reminding us that behind each sculpture lies a story waiting to be told—a story that encourages us to remember, celebrate, and advocate for a more inclusive history.

As we honor Filipino-American History Month, Bordeaux’s work serves as a call to action to ensure that the legacies of women, especially those like Apo Whang Od and Magdalena Leones, are cherished, celebrated, and remembered. The History Colorado Center provided an ideal space for this dialogue, embracing the power of art and community in shaping a richer, more inclusive narrative.