In 1978, Kapatirang Pilipino was established as the Pilipino Student Union by Barbara Yee based on the pillars of social, cultural, political, and academic. As years passed, the increase in membership led to the new name, Kapatirang Pilipino - translating into "brotherhood and sisterhood." Fourteen years later, Pilipino Cultural Night was created to commemorate the singing, dancing, and lifestyle of the Philippines. Not long after that, in 1994, Kapatirang Pilipino established Pilipino Graduation to honor the graduating class of the year. 39 years later, Kapatirang Pilipino is now the biggest API organization in UC Santa Barbara. The organization continues to create bonds among students that can last a lifetime. The purpose of Kapatirang Pilipino shall be to provide creative venues for social interaction through political empowerment, Filipinx American cultural and ethnic awareness and promotion of academic excellence at UCSB and its surrounding communities.