Indigenous women, with their cultural diversity, have become a solid pillar in the journey of change. Especially in the context of fulfilling and recognizing the rights of indigenous peoples. Because they play an irreplaceable role in building the foundation of justice and equality.
The importance of the role of indigenous women cannot be separated from their role in preserving and passing on cultural values and traditions. As key holders of local wisdom, they become a living bridge between the past, present, and future. They also actively involve themselves in encouraging positive transformation in indigenous communities.
In the process of change, indigenous women provide a deep dimension of diversity and enrich insight into the sustainability of living together. They are agents who actively contribute to designing a more just and equitable future. They bring nuances of gentleness, wisdom, and balance to every step taken towards the fulfillment and recognition of indigenous peoples' rights.
The diversity of indigenous women also ensures that all aspects of life, including indigenous peoples' rights, are viewed from a comprehensive perspective. Their involvement ensures that women's voices are no longer ignored in decision-making concerning the lives of indigenous peoples. In this way, indigenous peoples' rights are no longer a limited domain, but rather the result of collaboration between men and women.
Respecting and recognizing their role in the process of change is a crucial step in building an inclusive and empowered indigenous society. Through their contributions, a solid foundation is formed to face the challenges of the times, while still preserving the noble values that have been passed down from generation to generation. They are not only an important part, but also the main pillars that are able to carve out a trail of sustainability and justice for all indigenous peoples.
In the course of the 16 Days of Anti-Violence Against Women (HAKTP) series, we are faced with a collective reflection that raises awareness. Until now, women, especially indigenous women, are still marginalized in their search for a safe space. Although momentum against violence continues to grow, the journey towards equality and security for women is far from over.
The 16 HAKTP series became a stage to illustrate the inequality that still exists. Indigenous women, with the rich culture and noble heritage they carry, seem to be drowning in the shadow of gender inequality. This insecurity creates walls that are difficult to pass through, taking away women's right to experience a space free from threats and violence.
The role of women in decision-making and voicing opinions is still trapped in a web of inequality. Although there are continuous efforts to fight for women's rights, this journey feels like it takes time and strong determination. The voices of indigenous women, who should be the harmony in the decision-making framework, are still often dim and ignored.
On this 16th HAKTP day, KEMITRAAN through the Estungkara program, encourages them to be empowered. Not only in terms of capacity and capability, but also socially and economically. Throughout 2023, Estungkara has become a safe space. Where they can grow and develop, becoming an inseparable part of change in the midst of indigenous communities.
PARTNERSHIP with partners, training the Benteng Chinese Ethnic women's group to develop their cooperative. And find creative ideas in developing their business.
The partnership also encourages the economic participation of Kasepuhan women in optimizing the management of customary forest potential. This has an impact where Kasepuhan women can manage and utilize natural resources in a sustainable manner.
There is also the Estungkara program which encourages the participation of Orang Rimba to understand the role of women and their rights through a series of critical discussions.
Also in Mentawai where the Estungkara program increases the capacity of Mentawai indigenous women through training and education related to their rights. This aims to foster critical awareness of indigenous peoples and marginalized groups to be involved in village development planning forums.
The available data reflects how Estungkara has been involved in a number of empowerment programs for indigenous women during this year. Programs specifically designed to increase their capacity, provide skills training, and also open up opportunities for access to education. Estungkara does not only offer assistance, but also provides them with the tools to become agents of change in their communities.
Reflection on Estungkara's journey this year is a call for all of us. This is not solely the responsibility of a few people or those who specifically care about this issue. However, this is a collective concern that invites every individual to reflect and act.
We need to understand that the rights, welfare and justice for indigenous women are a shared responsibility. This series calls us all to better understand the realities faced by women, especially those living in indigenous cultural circles.
Through this reflection, we are reminded of the importance of embracing change together. Also, supporting indigenous women to take their rightful place in decision-making structures.
By supporting and recognizing their existence, we open the door to greater change. Where every indigenous woman can feel a safe and equal space, far from the shadow of inequality and violence. This is the momentum for all of us to work together to make them pioneers of change, realizing an inclusive, empowered, and just indigenous society.
