BOOK LAUNCH article by Freda Changat
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12th Igorot Cordillera BIMAAK-Europe (ICBE) Conference
Salle Dupréel, Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Solbosch Campus
Avenue Jeanne 44, 1050 Ixelles, Belgium
May 29-June 1, 2025
Unveiling the Second Volume of "Travels, Travails and Triumphs of Igorot Cordillerans in Europe"
Freda Changat
Standing amidst the vibrant crowd at the launch of the book “Travels, Travails and Triumphs of Igorot Cordillerans in Europe,” Volume two, I am overwhelmed with a profound sense of pride and joy. As one of the contributing writers, witnessing this moment unfold before my eyes reinforces the deep significance of our shared stories—stories of perseverance, hope, and unwavering pride in our Igorot identity.
This event is more than a book launch; it is a powerful celebration of our heritage, a testament to the resilience of our ancestors and the resilience that continues to pulse through our veins today. The stories, poems, sonnets, and essays woven into this volume are a tribute to our collective journey—each word a beacon of cultural pride and resistance.
What touched me most deeply was witnessing the young generation carrying the torch of our heritage. Seeing their faces, bright with understanding and respect for their roots, signified that our history is alive and thriving within them. They are the future bearers of our culture, and their embrace of their Igorot identity is a powerful act of defiance against cultural erasure. It is their way of saying, "We belong. We survive. We thrive."
Championing your Igorot identity in this context is a powerful expression of belonging and resistance. It transforms individual pride into a collective movement that nurtures cultural survival, fosters community bonds, and inspires future generations to carry the torch of their heritage with honor and unwavering resolve. This spirit of unity and resilience keeps our traditions alive, even across continents and oceans.
I am also immensely grateful for the 12th ICBE Conference 2025 in Brussels, which brought us together in this shared celebration. It has been both a privilege and a blessing to collaborate with incredible kakailians of all ages who are passionate writers, storytellers, and cultural advocates—who share the same heartfelt desire to inspire our youth. Despite being miles away from our homeland, we remain connected through our stories and dreams, steadfast in our mission to preserve and promote the legacy of the Igorot people.
This volume is not just a collection of stories but a clarion call for unity, pride, and perseverance. It celebrates the triumphs of Igorot Cordillerans in Europe, highlighting their journeys of overcoming cultural stereotypes, confronting mental health stigmas, and fostering a sense of belonging in unfamiliar landscapes.
It is a vivid reminder that every story matters, every voice counts, and we can inspire generations through shared history and collective strength. This volume and this gathering reaffirm a timeless truth: Our stories matter. They are the threads that weave us into a resilient, proud community. They remind us that even in exile, our culture endures—fueled by the unwavering resolve of those who dare to celebrate their roots. Let this book serve as a beacon of hope, pride, and the ever-unfolding triumph of the human spirit across borders and boundaries.
As we continue to share these stories with the world, let us carry forward the spirit of our ancestors—facing challenges with courage, holding tightly to our identity, and inspiring others to do the same. The journey of the Igorot in Europe is not merely about the distance traveled but also about the strength of spirit that keeps us connected, proud, and resilient.
Here's to the heroes of our stories, future generations carrying our legacy, and the collective triumph that is the soul of our culture. Matago-tago nan ka-Igorotan!