Southeast Asia's historical migration patterns, religious and ethnic diversity, and (post)colonial legacies have created a complex landscape that defies easy categorization using internationalized criteria typically associated with indigeneity. This workshop aims to address critical questions on the concept of indigeneity within the Southeast Asian context, particularly in relation to the intersections of ecology, identity, and politics. Southeast Asia's rich biodiversity and the reliance of Indigenous communities on natural resources raise significant ecological implications for the recognition or denial of Indigenous status. Furthermore, in a region marked by diverse ethnic, religious, and linguistic identities, the negotiation of Indigenous identity within the broader framework of national and regional identities is a complex and pressing issue.

The workshop will delve into the intricacies of how political structures and power dynamics influence the recognition and rights of Indigenous communities, exploring topics such as autonomy, representation, and resource management. The historical patterns of migration and mobility that define Southeast Asia will be explored to understand their impact on Indigenous identity and the experiences of oppression faced by these communities. Moreover, the booming tourism industry and environmental changes in the region will be discussed for their socio-economic and ecological consequences and their connection to the politics of indigeneity. The workshop will critically assess the applicability of internationalized criteria for indigeneity to the unique and diverse Southeast Asian context, highlighting the challenges involved. Finally, it will investigate the practical implications of recognizing Indigenous status, particularly concerning access to resources, land rights, and political representation, and how these rights intersect with broader discussions on human rights and social justice. This workshop promises to provide an invaluable platform for scholars and practitioners to engage in a comprehensive and context-specific analysis, fostering a deeper and more nuanced understanding of indigeneity in Southeast Asia.

This project is funded by the Title VI National Resource Center grant to the UC Berkeley-UCLA Consortium for Southeast Asian Studies. 

PARTICIPANTS:

• Stephen Acabado (UCLA)
• Evyn Lê Espiritu Gandhi (UCLA)
• Sylvia Tiwon (UC Berkeley)
• Tani Sebro (Cal Poly Humboldt)
• Ryan Buyco (Cal Poly San Luis Obispo)
• Joanne Rondilla (San José State University)
• Bernard Ellorin (San Diego Miramar College)
• Chi Yen Ha (PhD student, UC Riverside)
• Suraiya Luecke (PhD student, UCLA) 

 WORKSHOP PROGRAM

April 8, 2024 at UCLA - 10383 Bunche Hall

9:30 AM Breakfast

10 AM  Introductions by Stephen Acabado

10:10 AM Session 1

10:15 AM Stephen Acabado (20 mins)

10:40 AM Bernard Ellorin (20 mins) 

11:05 AM Tani Sebro (20 mins) 

11:30 AM Chi Yen Ha (20 mins)

12 PM Lunch

12:15 PM Public Panel (HYBRID)

Expressions of Indigeneity and Cultural Conservation in Southeast Asia

Panelists: Bernard Ellorin (San Diego Miramar College), Tani Sebro (Cal Poly Humboldt), Stephen Acabado (UCLA) 

1 PM Q&A Moderated by Stephen Acabado (UCLA)

1:30 PM Panel Ends

1:35 PM Session 2

1:35 PM Evyn Lê Espiritu Gandhi (20 mins)

2:00 PM Ryan Buyco (20 mins)

2:25 PM Joanne Rondilla (20 mins)

2:50 PM Sylvia Tiwon (20 mins)

3:15 PM Suraiya Luecke (20 mins)

3:40 PM Break (10 mins)

3:50 PM Group Discussion

5:15 PM Closing Remarks

5:30 PM Workshop Ends