ABOUT HSPAA
Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance
Bringing Filipino Heritage to the Heart of Harvard Square
The Harvard Square Philippine Alliance Association (HSPAA) is a cultural organization dedicated to celebrating and sharing the richness of Filipino and Asian American heritage. Located at the historic crossroads of Harvard Square, one of New England’s most iconic public spaces, HSPAA transforms local festivals into vibrant, inclusive gatherings that draw tens of thousands of visitors from across the region.
HSPAA has established itself as a leading Filipino‑American cultural institution in New England. Operating from Harvard Square—a globally recognized hub of education and culture—the organization has consistently elevated Filipino heritage through large‑scale festivals, academic partnerships, and media visibility, directly serving the Filipino diaspora while introducing Philippine traditions to diverse American audiences.
What we do
We produce and partner on some of Cambridge’s most anticipated cultural events:
- Asian Street Food & Music Festival
- Filipino American Festival
- Asian Night Market
- Cultural programming at MayFair, Oktoberfest
- AAPI Heritage Month celebrations
Through these events, we showcase the flavors, sounds, and traditions of the Filipino diaspora alongside broader Asian American communities, creating a welcoming space where heritage meets contemporary creativity.
Our Impact
Our festivals have grown from community gatherings to large‑scale cultural destinations, attracting 88,000 to 150,000 attendees—a story of growth visible in our event recaps and local media coverage. HSPAA has been featured by ABS‑CBN / TFC News, GMA Pinoy TV, INQUIRER.net USA, the Boston Globe, WCVB Channel 5, Sampan Newspaper, and the Harvard Crimson, reflecting our role as a bridge between Filipino, Asian American, and mainstream audiences.
Impact on the Filipino Community:
Through its events and partnerships, HSPAA has strengthened the sense of identity and belonging for Filipino immigrants and Filipino‑Americans in New England. It has provided a consistent, high‑visibility venue for Filipino artists, culinary entrepreneurs, and cultural bearers to share their talents. By embedding Filipino programming within Harvard Square’s celebrated festivals, HSPAA has ensured that Philippine culture occupies a place of honor in one of the most influential public spaces in the United States.
Partners & Collaborators
We are proud to work alongside:
- Harvard Square Business Association – cultural partner for MayFair, Oktoberfest, and night markets
- Harvard Peabody Museum of Archaeology & Ethnology – connecting Philippine collections with public programs
- Harvard University Asia Center – supporting academic and cultural exchange
- Mass Cultural Council – a recognized grantee
- Boston Foundation- a recognized grantee
- City of Cambridge – official partner for AAPI Heritage Month events
- The Boston Foundation – philanthropic supporter
- Philippine Living Heritage – promoting intangible cultural preservation
Academic & Youth Engagement
We actively collaborate with students and faculty from Harvard University, Boston University, Northeastern University, Berklee College of Music, UMass Amherst, and Bunker Community College , providing performance opportunities, volunteer experiences, and cross‑cultural learning.
Key Achievements
1. Large‑Scale Cultural Events
HSPAA produces and co‑presents flagship events including the Asian Street Food & Music Festival, Filipino American Festival, and Asian Night Market. These gatherings have grown to attract between 88,000 and 150,000 attendees, providing a platform for Filipino food, music, dance, and craftsmanship. Video documentation and media coverage from ABS‑CBN / TFC News, GMA Pinoy TV, and INQUIRER.net USA attest to the scale and cultural resonance of these events.
2. Mainstream Visibility & Media Recognition
HSPAA has successfully brought Filipino culture into mainstream media, with coverage by the Boston Globe, WCVB Channel 5 Boston, Sampan Newspaper, and the Harvard Crimson. This sustained media presence has significantly raised the profile of the Filipino community in New England and beyond.
3. Institutional Partnerships
The organization has forged lasting partnerships with prestigious institutions that amplify Filipino heritage:
- Harvard Square Business Association – integrating Filipino programming into major neighborhood festivals (MayFair, Oktoberfest)
- Harvard Peabody Museum – collaborating on Philippine collections and cultural interpretation
- Harvard University Asia Center – fostering academic engagement
- Mass Cultural Council – as a publicly listed grantee
- City of Cambridge – official participant in AAPI Heritage Month
4. Academic & Youth Engagement
HSPAA actively involves students from Harvard University, Boston University, Northeastern University, Berklee College of Music, UMass Amherst, and Amherst College, creating pathways for young Filipino‑Americans to connect with their heritage and for non‑Filipino students to experience Philippine culture.
5. Philanthropic & Cultural Support
The organization is supported by the Boston Foundation and collaborates with Philippine Living Heritage, underscoring its commitment to both community service and the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage.
Nominations
The Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO)
Banaag Award
Nominee:
Harvard Square Philippine Alliance Association (HSPAA)
Contribution Area:
Cultural preservation, community empowerment, and promotion of Philippine heritage in the United States
About the Award:
Banaag, which translates to “glimmer or ray of light,” speaks of the leadership role, compassion, and service of overseas Filipinos towards promoting the welfare and interests of their fellow Filipinos abroad. This award is conferred on overseas Filipino individuals or organizations for their significant contributions in the host country that have benefited and advanced the cause and interest of the Filipino diaspora/overseas Filipino community.
Our Values
Integrity and Mutual Respect. Diversity, Social Equity, and Inclusion. Leadership and Education. Advocacy and Collaboration
Mission
Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA) aspires to foster an inclusive, safe, and socially equitable environment where all forms of diversity are accepted and valued.
Vision
Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA), a nonprofit organization focused and committed on creating a collaborative community and culture where every member’s identity is strengthened through leadership empowerment, educational forums, and programs on the uniqueness of the Filipino culture, advocating for the needs of the HSPAA community and addressing Asian and Pacific Islander hate issues.
some cool facts
Events Statistics
Empowering the Filipino & Asian Community
The Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA) is a vibrant community that celebrates the rich heritage of the Filipino and Asian people. Your generous donations will allow us to continue organizing festivals, parades, and gatherings that showcase Asian music, dance, and delicious food.
Thank you for supporting HSPAA and helping us create a more inclusive and vibrant community.
Donate today and make a difference!
About HSPAA
The Harvard Square Philippine American Alliance (HSPAA) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to promoting Filipino culture, heritage, and civic engagement in Harvard Square and beyond. Founded by Satrick and Catherine Uy, HSPAA partners with local schools, businesses, organizations, and cultural institutions to create events that celebrate Filipino identity and foster cross-cultural understanding.