Maui's Filipino community is gearing up for a statewide celebration marking a milestone in local history, a point of pride rather than breaking news.

• The event honors the 120th anniversary of the first Filipino plantation workers, known as sakadas, arriving in Hawaii.
• A preview event at the Maui Beach Hotel features a new painting by artist Philip Sabado, commissioned by local restaurateurs and business leaders who are themselves descendants of sakadas.
• December 20th is officially recognized as Sakada Day in Hawaii, a designation established under former Governor David Ige.
• Organizers say the push is about preserving this history so future generations understand the sacrifices sakadas made.

Outlook: Multiple events are planned across the state leading up to the main anniversary celebration on December 20th.