Interview with Mitchell Balingit
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Interviewers
Bennit Miller, Violet Cooney, Victoria Isaev
Description
The interview was conducted by Bennit Miller, along with Victoria Isaev and Violet Cooney. The interview was about Mr. Balingit, a principal at Collins Elementary School, who shared his personal immigrant experience. Born in the Philippines in 1970, Mr. Balingit’s family moved to the United States in 1973 due to his grandfather's academic ties with the University of Washington and the family's desire for better healthcare and educational opportunities. They settled in Southern California, where Mr. Balingit grew up in a predominantly white school, often feeling pressured to conform to American norms to fit in. He recalls avoiding speaking his native language and cultural practices to blend in better with his peers, but over time, he grew more confident, especially during his college years at UC Berkeley.
Despite facing some discrimination and cultural challenges, particularly around his identity as an Asian-American, he eventually embraced his heritage. He describes how being in a multicultural environment, especially in his role as a principal, has allowed him to appreciate diversity and encourage inclusivity in others. Moving to Michigan in 2001, he sought a place where his multiracial family would be accepted, and found East Grand Rapids to be a good fit.
When reflecting on his family’s hopes when immigrating to America, Mr. Balingit emphasized the importance of financial and medical opportunities. He acknowledged that while the immigrant experience can be difficult, staying true to one's culture and values is key to overcoming challenges. Mr. Balingit’s advice to anyone considering immigration is to be authentic, proud of their culture, and to find the right community that supports their growth. He regrets not embracing his cultural identity fully as a child but now encourages others to celebrate their heritage.
Overall, the interview highlighted the complexities of immigration, assimilation, and the importance of maintaining cultural pride in the face of societal pressures.
Date of Interview
2025
Location of Interview
Grand Rapids, MI
Series
Telling Our Stories
Keywords
Oral History, AAPI, Michigan, Asian American, Filipino, Immigrant
Disciplines
Asian American Studies | Oral History
Language
ENG
Document Type
Interview
Recommended Citation
Balingit, Mitchell, "Interview with Mitchell Balingit" (2025). Telling Our Stories: A Video Collection Celebrating AAPI Heritage. 16.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/our-stories-aapi/16
Length of video
13:26
Length of video log
8 pages
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