12TH ICBE WORKSHOP DISCUSSION GROUP

 

12^TH ICBE WORKSHOP DISCUSSION GROUP

RE: “CONTEMPORARY ISSUES AND EXPERIENCES OF INDIGENEITY”

as presented by MACARIO LACBAWAN, PH.D (Lund University, SE / University of Hamburg, DE)

31 MAY 2025 (SATURDAY)

GROUP FACILITATOR: LORENA DOMANOG CLERC (BIBAAK Switzerland)

GROUP NOTETAKER: AIRAH CADIOGAN (BIBAAK Switzerland)

GROUP 1 MEMBERS & CONTRIBUTORS

• Cesar Taguba, Netherlands
• Delia Batalao, USA
• Marjorie Soaygan, Austria
• Adela Mayyong, Netherlands
• Conchita Pooten, UK
• Marceline Montes, Germany
• Diana, Germany
• Agnes Camacho, Czech Republic
• Cecila Ann Seidl, Czech Republic
• Frances Sepulchre, UK

SUMMARY OF DISCUSSIONS

1. Individual Introductions and Acknowledgment

The session began with each participant introducing themselves and sharing what resonated with them most about Dr. Macky’s presentation.

2. On ‘diasporic toolkits’ and breaking the cycle of bain

Most participants identified with the ‘anxiety’ and tension surfaced during the presentations and highlighted the importance of the ‘diasporic toolkits’ and other solutions to manage one’s uprootedness or life in the diaspora, which Dr. Macky’s summarized as ‘living beyond the bind.’

The usefulness of collective dances and stories that emphasize our pride in our heritage was discussed, particularly in relation to the shame that many Igorots, across all generations, may feel (whether imposed by others or self-imposed) about their indigeneity. This shame is often a result of outright bullying in schools, for example (often from fellow Filipinos in the diaspora) based on negative discriminatory stereotypes of Igorots, along with peer pressure or the pressure to conform to a dominant Filipino (non-indigenous) identity or the host country’s culture.

Dr. Macky stressed the importance of actively breaking the cycle of shame, which can be passed down through generations. This can be aided by developing a strong sense of self and joining collective expressions of pride through cultural activities, for instance. However, we must ensure that these spaces are inclusive, that while we forcefully express our indigeneity, we keep the room open to non-indigenous allies or those who support indigenous causes.

3. ICBE as a bridge builder

Participants discussed how the delineation between first and second-generation Igorots is not always straightforward. The example was given of children who were brought over from the Philippines from parents who were already settled abroad (note: in contexts like the US, this has been termed the 1.5 generation). Regardless of which generation one group of people belongs to, the key is to build bridges between and across generations through activities such as ICBE and local cultural celebrations, if available.

Another value of ICBE as a bridge builder that emerged during the discussion was its role in connecting countries, allowing each to learn from the experiences of the others. For instance, Igorot UK, as a long-established organization, shared advice to delegates from the Czech Republic, whose own association is still in its infancy, sharing lessons learned and best practices.

On this note, one topic sparked the group's interest: should Igorot organizations continue to engage with Philippine embassies, which are always keen to have us perform during festivities like the Philippine Independence Day celebration? Some expressed reluctance to being ‘used’ or ‘displayed’, especially when the relationship between the embassy and the organization has not been meaningful; others said such invitations are precisely an opportunity to start building relationships with ambassadors or consuls, and that we should leverage these occasions to not only ensure ‘genuine’ performances of our traditional dances but also to influence the institution to support our causes.

4. Addressing the colonial roots of Igorot indigeneity in Europe

The final part of the discussions turned to acknowledging the colonial roots of the indigenous struggle, including the assertion of indigeneity in the diaspora. Referencing scholars like historian Henry Scott, participants noted that although Igorots are recognized as indigenous people based on the fact that we resisted Spanish colonization or ‘we were not colonized,’ we must not ignore the colonial roots of the contemporary issues faced by Igorot communities in the Philippines today, such as land grabbing, the entrance of extractive industries, and discrimination.

Dr. Macky noted that as Igorot communities in Europe, we must be prepared to confront past colonial powers, such as Spain and the UK, when seeking acknowledgement or closure for historical wrongs, such as participation in human zoos like the Madrid or Ghent Expos in the early 1900s, where Igorots were displayed, or the return of stolen Igorot artifacts. He cited the initiative by BIBAAK Barcelona to demand that the Spanish government acknowledge the abuse of Igorots during the Madrid Expo. Participants agreed that such initiatives will not be easy, but they are worth pursuing.

5. Closing Remarks

In closing, participants focused on the right to self-determination as an overarching concept to allow Igorots to “live beyond the bind,” and represent ourselves as we are and share our own lived experiences.

Education for the next generation will remain key, as will solidarity with other Igorot organizations and other indigenous peoples.

Notes and report prepared by Airah Cadiogan, 25 June 2025    

12^th Igorot Cordillera BIMAAK-Europe (ICBE) Conference
ULB Campus du Solbosch, Bâtiment S, Salle Dupréel, Avenue Jeanne 44,
1050 Bruxelles, Belgium

29 May – 1 June 2025