Indigenous Peoples Month 2024: Indigenous Rights and Knowledge Celebration

The Philippines marks the month of October as Indigenous Peoples Month, and 2024 will be the 27th year since the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act was passed. This year's theme is "Mga Katutubo at Katutubong Dunong: Pahalagahan, Pangalagaan at Parangalana" or Valuing, Nurturing, and Honoring Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Knowledge. The theme calls for the protection of rights and the preservation of their cultural heritage. This one-month celebration reminds everyone that the traditions, lands, and knowledge of Indigenous peoples must be respected.

The IPRA, implemented in 1997, guarantees the rights of IPs to their ancestral domains, culture, and self-determination. Both the commemoration of the month and the anniversary of the law remind us of the relevance of the need to conserve Indigenous ways of life greatly contributing to biodiversity and cultural diversity. It makes a call for people to appreciate and respect Indigenous knowledge systems, such as sustainable agriculture and medicinal practices.

Beyond celebrating the past, the Indigenous Peoples Month provides opportunities for dialogue and understanding among Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Events often include cultural exhibitions and discussions that help to create an awareness of IP issues and promote protection of rights. It empowers the indigenous peoples so that their contribution and rights are taken care of for the coming generations.

References:
•     National Commission on Indigenous Peoples. 2024. Indigenous Peoples Month 2024. • Republic Act No. 8371: Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997.

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