Three generations of Bay Area Filipinas embark on a journey to understand belonging in the diaspora, guided by the stories of 90-year-old 'Lola' Marie, one of the first American-born Filipinas, and the reflections of her granddaughter, Elenita.
Oakland Ilokana
Coming 2025
At 90 years old, ‘Lola’ Marie still wonders where she truly belongs. Born in 1934 in California and raised in Oakland Chinatown, she was one of the first American-born Filipinas in a time when Filipino communities were still fledging. “Oakland Ilokana” unearths her story, tracing her family’s century-long struggle for place and identity against the backdrop of immigration, labor, and war.
Through the voices of three generations of Bay Area-born Filipinas—’Lola’ Marie, her daughter Christine, and her granddaughter and filmmaker Elenita—this film explores themes of displacement, racism, resilience, and legacy. It interrogates why a sense of belonging remains elusive for some, despite generations of being rooted in the same place. “Oakland Ilokana” is a deeply intimate yet universal story, weaving together personal memory and collective history. It serves as both a historical record and a call to action—urging viewers to reflect on the past while reimagining a more inclusive future.
Fund Oakland Ilokana
We are relying on community funding to bring this independent film to life. Every bit goes a long way for our small and scrappy team!
“The proposed project would shine a light on the artist’s Lola and 90 years worth of Filipino American history...wonderfully unique historical perspective, clearly accomplished videographer.
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Sponsorship
Our team is seeking financial sponsorship and in-kind donations to support the production of Oakland Ilokana.
Sponsors may be promoted across social media and print marketing materials, have their logo featured in the final film, and offered a speaking opportunity at the community screening event in Oakland.
Find out more about sponsorship opportunities below:
