In the wake of Donald Trump’s election victory, many Filipino American families find themselves unexpectedly divided. For some, Trump represents a return to conservative values—support for religious freedoms, economic stability, and strong leadership. For others, especially among younger generations, his policies and rhetoric clash with more progressive ideals. The result? Silence at family gatherings, strained relationships, and sometimes outright conflict. This article delves into why Trump’s victory resonates with many Filipino families, especially those with conservative values, and explores ways to bridge these new divides in a respectful and understanding manner.
Why Many Filipino Americans Feel Aligned with Trump’s Leadership
1. Shared Values – Faith, Family, and Stability
- Faith-Based Conservatism: Many Filipino immigrants grew up in a deeply Catholic society where family, faith, and tradition are core values. Trump’s stance on religious freedom and opposition to certain progressive policies align with these beliefs, resonating with Filipino families who prioritize these values in American politics.
- Economic Stability and Law and Order: Many first-generation immigrants view Trump’s focus on a strong economy and law enforcement as necessary for safety and prosperity. For families who worked hard to establish themselves in America, Trump’s platform can feel like a commitment to the values that led them to success—hard work, order, and security.
2. Appreciation for Strong, Decisive Leadership
- In the Philippines, leaders are often seen as figures of strength, and Trump’s direct and assertive approach is appealing to many who value decisive leadership. This leadership style is reminiscent of past Filipino leaders and aligns with a more traditional view of governance, which emphasizes respect for authority and stability.
- Trump’s strong stance on issues like illegal immigration and economic self-reliance often resonates with immigrant families who have followed lawful immigration pathways, making his platform feel relatable and just.
Generational Gaps and the Challenges They Bring
1. Younger Generations’ Progressive Leanings
- Many Filipino American youth, shaped by diverse perspectives in schools and workplaces, lean toward progressive values, prioritizing issues like LGBTQ+ rights, climate change, and racial justice. To them, Trump’s policies can feel at odds with an inclusive, multicultural society.
- For older generations, however, these progressive issues may seem secondary to core concerns about family unity, safety, and stability, creating a deep divide in values between parents and children or grandparents and grandchildren.
2. Cultural Conflict – Respect for Elders vs. Political Expression
- Traditional Filipino culture places great emphasis on respecting elders, which can make it challenging for younger family members to voice disagreement. When younger relatives openly oppose Trump or conservative values, it can be seen by elders as disrespectful or a rejection of cultural norms.
- This cultural aspect makes political discussions particularly sensitive. Many elders feel disrespected or dismissed when their views are challenged, while younger family members may feel misunderstood or pressured to conform.
The Impact – Silence, Strain, and Division in Family Dynamics
1. Avoiding Conversations to Preserve Family Peace
- Some Filipino families now avoid political discussions altogether, hoping to maintain peace by sidestepping controversial topics. However, this silence can also breed resentment, as unresolved feelings around Trump’s policies linger beneath the surface.
- For families who traditionally celebrated unity, this silent divide can feel like a painful fracture, creating a sense of distance in relationships that were once close-knit.
2. Emotional Distance and Isolation
- In some cases, political divisions have become so intense that family members actively avoid each other or limit communication. For Filipino families, this distance goes against the cultural norm of closeness and community, leaving individuals feeling isolated or even betrayed.
Finding Common Ground – Respect and Family Above Politics
1. Emphasizing Shared Values Beyond Politics
- Filipino families have strong cultural values that transcend political opinions. By focusing on these shared values—family unity, hard work, resilience, and faith—families can remind themselves that these bonds are deeper than political disagreements.
- Conversations can be redirected to shared experiences and beliefs, which can help restore harmony and reduce tension.
2. Practicing Respectful Communication
- Listening First: Taking time to listen to one another’s viewpoints without interrupting or arguing can help reduce defensiveness and open the door to mutual respect.
- Setting Boundaries Around Political Discussions: Agreeing to leave politics off the dinner table can allow families to enjoy each other’s company without the risk of escalating conflict. If a discussion does arise, agreeing to keep it respectful and brief can help prevent arguments.
3. Recognizing the Influence of Media
- Media and social media can reinforce polarized views. By sharing reliable sources of information and discussing the role media plays in shaping opinions, family members can develop a more balanced understanding of each other’s perspectives.
- Family members can encourage one another to approach media with discernment, reducing misunderstandings and the influence of misinformation.
Conclusion
Trump’s recent victory has highlighted political and cultural rifts within Filipino families in America, creating a unique challenge for a community that values unity, respect, and family above all else. Despite these political divides, Filipino families have the resilience and cultural values to navigate these difficult times with respect and empathy. By focusing on shared beliefs and respecting each other’s perspectives, families can bridge divides, keep relationships intact, and continue to support one another through the challenges and triumphs ahead.
