“Under My Invisible Umbrella” by Laurel Fantauzzo: A DIspleasing Trait of Filipinos

The first part of Laurel Fauntazzo’s literary piece entitled, “Under My Invisible
Umbrella” presents how Filipinos see foreigners as superior and affluent. However, the
stereotypical views of Filipinos outweigh the reality that other foreigners also strive to
have a better life. As the writer informs the reader about the man who offered his
service without hesitation and was asked by her Tagalog teacher “Did you notice that
he held the umbrella only for you?” This speaks loudly about the man who was holding
it like a flag because he assumed that her skin color has to do with her status in life.
Growing up, Laurel experienced difficulties in terms of racial differences, but despite
that, she still received several privileges and special treatment. It’s because of the
colonial mentality that Filipinos have, which is being white is the basis of how well off
you are in life.

Colonial Mentality is experienced by Filipino American people and how this may
manifest in their everyday life. This is evident in the essay in regards to what Laurel
experienced, that Filipinos tend to treat people unequally and differently. The line “I
used the cafe’s Wi-Fi for hours, while servers impatiently thrust menus at more-melanin
customers who had dared sit too long.” was one thing that gave her the advantage
even though she only spent less money than the others. That’s because people have
this mindset of considering someone who speaks English with a pale face and black
hair as a foreigner or mestiza as she is. To further elaborate some parts of this essay,
literary devices are apparent. There are tracks of similes, metaphors, imagery, and
symbolism which enhanced the story to be more meaningful and captivating. Its fast
and upbeat tone increased the story’s ability to convey different scenarios which is an
important aspect in writing, as it reflects the writer’s attitude towards his/her subject
matter and allows the readers to think critically.

Some Filipinos practice this kind of mentality that can be seen up to this date but
little did they know that many Filipinos seek and strive to be treated equally.
Consequently, this shows the superiority of white people in relation to the privilege and
treatments that foreigners received. However, in some cases, not all Filipino-American
people get to experience that.