Indigenous communities have a long history of enduring systemic injustices, notably highlighted by the racist history of human zoos in Western countries. This troubling past has left a lasting negative impact on cultural narratives that shape societal perceptions through stories, cultural upbringing, and educational systems. In the present, the failure to fully recognise and integrate Indigenous perspectives perpetuates racial biases and cultural unfamiliarity. This oversight not only hinders understanding but also contributes to unfair and discriminatory practices that are embedded within the structures and procedures of decision-making at various levels of society. Thus, in this two-hour forum, we will explore the following key questions: How can acknowledging historical wrongs contribute to dismantling systemic injustices? What role do Indigenous philosophies play in fostering understanding and advocating for communal interests? How can integrating Indigenous perspectives strengthen today’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) initiatives for the purpose of rebuilding more inclusive and equitable systems?
Program time-table:
20.00 Opening remarks, including introductory video re: Week Against Racism
20.05 Introduction of Speakers: Cesar Taguba, Salmaan Sana, Lu Wie Hu-Peijster
20.15 Discussion Point #1: How can acknowledging historical wrongs contribute to dismantling systemic injustices?
20.25 Discussion Point #2: What role do Indigenous philosophies play in fostering understanding and advocating for communal interests?
20.45 Intermission by Igorot singer & artist Mercedes Dewalan, MABIKAs Foundation Constituent
20.55 Discussion Point #3: How can integrating indigenous perspectives strengthen today’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) initiatives for the purpose of rebuilding more inclusive and equitable systems?
21.15 Open forum with audience (Q&A)
21.30 Closing Remarks & Ceremony, including announcements, call to action, community dancing to close, group picture taking
22.00 Door closes
Speaker bio’s
Cesar Tomilas Taguba is an indigenous Igorot from the Philippine Cordillera and serves as a representative of the Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA) Elder in Europe. He arrived in the Netherlands in the 1980s as a political refugee and has since settled in Amersfoort. Throughout his time in the Netherlands, he has steadfastly advocated for Indigenous rights and culture. As a co-founder of MABIKAs Foundation-The Netherlands and in partnership with other diasporas, he works tirelessly to promote the right to self-determination, defense of ancestral land, and culture of resistance and further ensure that indigenous knowledge is passed on to future generations.
Salmaan Sana serves in multiple roles, including as a TEDxAmsterdam licensee and board member, speaker and consultant to various organizations. In his consulting work, he focuses on cultivating thriving cultures, developing personal leadership, and fostering unity among diverse teams. His speaking engagements center around changing company culture, driving action for diversity, equity, and inclusion, and overcoming obstacles through transforming frustrations. Beyond his professional pursuits, you’ll frequently find him cycling through the streets of Amsterdam with his daughter, exploring the world of writing, and staying physically active through CrossFit and kickboxing.
Lu Wie Hu-Peijster currently serves as the Diversity Officer HR at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. She has a background in recruiting and currently dedicated to building a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive staff policy. This involves innovative recruitment strategies to identify talent at entry and creating a welcoming workplace environment for all employees. Additionally, she is responsible for promoting awareness in various ways to recognize and acknowledge qualities, ensuring that all talents thrive at VU Amsterdam. In her free time she is helping grow volunteer-led Jobs for Humanity by connecting underrepresented talent with welcoming employers and providing ongoing support for the communities they serve. She is enthusiastic about sharing her insights on the broader concept of DEI and its intersection with the recognition and incorporation of indigenous values and perspectives.
Mercedes Dewalan, an indigenous Igorot from Northern Philippines, is a passionate musician and gifted singer. Since 2016, she has played an active role in advancing the mission of MABIKAs Foundation as both a constituent and pioneer. Through her dedication, she contributes her time, skills, and passion to preserving indigenous culture and identity. Mercedes believes that by delving deeper into her ethnic roots, she gains a richer understanding of their intrinsic value.
Moderator:
Myra Colis is the Founding Chairperson of MABIKAs Foundation, a civic organization dedicated to eradicating prejudice against indigenous people through awareness and education. As an indigenous person and a woman migrant from Northern Philippines, she passionately advocates for the rights of women and indigenous people. With an academic background in mass communication, law in society, and international technology law, Myra is keen on contributing to finding inclusive solutions when addressing multi-layered gaps at the intersection of law, technology, and well-being. She aims to leverage the relevance and contribution of indigenous communities and their knowledge, particularly in the face of today’s widening gap of inequality caused by the rapid modernization and technological advancements in society.
