Peter Aduja
| Peter Aduja | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1920 Salindig, Vigon, Ilocos Sur, Luzon, Philippines |
| Died | 2007 Las Vegas, Nevada |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Soldier, Teacher, Judge, Politician |
Peter Aduja was the first Filipino American elected to public office in the United States when he was elected as a representative in the Hawaii Legislature.
[edit] Biography
Aduja was born in Ilocos Sur in the Philippines and emigrated with his family at the age of 8 to Hilo, Hawaii.[1] Graduation from Hilo High and becoming an Eagle Scout,[2] he went on to the University of Hawaii to major in government and history.[1] In 1944, he joined the United States Army, and along with 50 other individuals volunteered for the 1st Filipino Infantry Regiment.[1]
Following World War II he taught on the island of Hawaii, before attending Boston University earning a law degree there in 1951 and becoming a district court judge.[2] In 1954, he was elected to the Territorial House of Representatives, becoming the first Filipino to be elected to public office in Hawaii, and the United States.[1] After a two year term he worked for the Department of Attorney General, until he served as a state representative from 1966 to 1974.[1]
[edit] Family
Aduja married Melodie "Lesing" Cabalona and had two children. Daughter, Melodie Aduja would eventually became a Hawaii State Senator.[3]
[edit] References
- ^ a b c d e Rod Ohira (22 February 2007). "Peter Aduja, distinguished local Filipino". Honolulu Advertiser. http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/article/2007/Feb/22/ln/FP702220334.html. Retrieved 4 September 2011.
- ^ a b "First Filipino lawmaker in US is dead at 87". GMA News. 23 February 2007. http://www.gmanews.tv/story/31840/first-filipino-lawmaker-in-us-is-dead-at-87. Retrieved 4 September 2011.
- ^ Ben DiPietro (6 November 2002). "No Lingle coattails: Republicans lose four House seats". Pacific Business News. http://www.bizjournals.com/pacific/stories/2002/11/04/daily45.html. Retrieved 4 August 2011.
