Southwest High School – Once a Raider… Always a Raider

WELCOME TO SOUTHWEST HIGH

Raider Reporter

Library Newsletter

Scholarship Info

Principal’s Message

Amazing Raider Families,

“Without education and liberty, which are the soil and the sun of man, no reform is possible, no measure can give the result desired.” ~Jose Rizal~

October is Filipino-American History Month where we recognize the contributions of Filipinos in the United States and around the world. As a Filipino who was born in the Philippines, grew up in Africa and now reside as a citizen of the United States in San Diego, I have only started to appreciate my own race and our contributions to the world about 16 years ago. When I visit my relatives in the Philippines and ask them about our family history, I learn more and more about how resilient and resourceful Filipinos are in spite of their circumstances. During my 2015 trip to the Philippines, I learned that my grandfather was one of the radio operators who assisted in communications for the United States during World War II. Despite being occupied by Spain and Japan, Filipinos are one of the most hopeful races in the world. They make opportunities where there are none. To Filipinos, education is a means to procure liberty and security, and the importance of education is instilled in all Filipino homes. Jose Rizal, the father of the Philippine Propaganda Movement, took advantage of the education he obtained from the University of Madrid, and wrote about the evils of the Spanish rule in the Philippines. Through his writings, Rizal formed a non-violent reform movement to fight for Filipino Equality Rights. Shortly after his return to the Philippines, he was exiled for four years to the Southern region in the Philippines because of his writings. When a secret insurrection group revolted against Spain, he was blamed for it and was accused of sedition against the Spanish government. He was executed before a firing squad in Manila. In early dawn of his execution he wrote a poem titled Mi Ultimo Adios, his final farewell to his beloved Pearl of the Orient. Rizal utilized his education in his reform efforts. To my Filipino students, be proud of your heritage because you stand on the shoulders of Jose Rizal who died fighting for your rights. To all students, the fight for your education continues. Many people in the history of every race and ethnicity has a “Jose Rizal” who fought for rights to receive education. Don’t waste it by not doing your best or giving up. As the second progress report approaches, remember your Jose Rizal and press forward to do excellent work.

Have a great week!

Easter Finley, Principal