Filipino Organizations Present “Nurse Unseen” Documentary in Alaska

Filipino organizations in Alaska premiered the documentary “Nurse Unseen” at the Anchorage Museum, aiming to highlight the contributions of Filipino nurses and other immigrants often overlooked in the healthcare sector. Filipinos represent the largest immigrant group in Alaska, working diligently in hospitals and nursing homes to address labor shortages.

Filipino nurses have played a crucial role in the U.S. healthcare system for over a century, tracing back to the American colonization of the Philippines, which led to Americanized nursing training. The film’s production began in 2019, but intensified following the COVID-19 pandemic, which starkly showcased the challenges faced by Filipino nurses.

According to the report “Sins of Omission,” while Filipinos constituted 4% of registered nurses in the U.S., they suffered the second highest death rate during the pandemic, with 31.5% of COVID-related nurse deaths attributed to them. Michele Josue, the film’s director, underscored the sacrifices made by Filipino nurses who often work extra shifts to support families back home.

“Filipinos are the unsung backbone of healthcare,” said Josue. This sentiment resonates with community members like Rebecca Carillo, a retired nurse, who reflected on the substantial roles Filipino immigrants play in various industries throughout Alaska, from healthcare to education.

In light of their critical contributions, many argue that stories highlighting their dedication need to be more visible, countering negative narratives surrounding immigration. Carillo noted, “If all of those folks are gone, I don’t know how that place is going to continue to run,” reinforcing the vital role of Filipino immigrants in Alaska.