society and culture

1. Chapter 3:
INDIGENOUS
COMMUNALITIES

2. INTRODUCTION
According to United Nations (UN), Indigenous communalities, people
and nations are those which, have a historical continuity with pre-
invasion and pre-colonial societies that developed on their territories,
consider themselves distinct from other sectors of the societies now
prevailing on those territories, or parts of them.
Indigenous people are inheritors and practitioners of unique cultures
and ways of relating to people and the environment. They have
retained social, cultural, economic and political characteristics that are
distinct from those of the dominant societies in which they live.
Despite their cultural differences, indigenous people from around the
world share common problems related to the protection of their
rights as distinct peoples.

3. Examples of indigenous communities in the
Philippines

4. Ata
Tribe

5. Tiruray or Teduray Tribe

6. Bukidnon

7. Bagobo
Tribe

8. Indigenous peoples worldwide are the custodians of unique cultures and possess a profound connection to their
natural environment, distinguishing them from dominant societies. Their social, cultural, economic, and
political characteristics are preserved, creating a tapestry of diversity. The term "Indigenous Peoples" has
transcended conventional dictionary definitions, gaining recognition in international law to encompass a
broad spectrum of communities beyond initial interpretations.
At the heart of indigenous communities lies the concept of communality, a multifaceted dimension
encompassing the spiritual, ethical, and ideological codes that define their existence. This perspective
extends beyond the physical space inhabited by these communities, delving into the dynamic interplay
between individuals and the elements of nature. Communality is not a concept in opposition to Western
society but rather a distinct and intricate framework that shapes indigenous political, social, legal, cultural,
economic, and civil behaviors.
A. INDIGENOUS PEOPLE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

9. A. INDIGENOUS PEOPLE IN SOUTHEAST ASIA
Self-identification is paramount for indigenous peoples, who prefer names rooted in their own languages over
external labels such as "ethnic minorities" or "hill tribes" imposed by some governments. These communities
possess distinct languages, cultures, customary laws, and social and political institutions that coexist with,
yet differ from, those of dominant ethno-linguistic groups in their respective countries.
In the face of violent conflicts, some indigenous groups are forced to relocate to other countries, like Thailand,
Vietnam, or Laos. Despite not being the original inhabitants, they strive to preserve their way of life,
traditions, and practices, maintaining their identity as Indigenous Peoples. Their often small populations
belie the rich diversity among indigenous communities, all sharing a profound cultural attachment to and
dependence on land, forests, or the sea and the natural resources therein. Displacement not only threatens
livelihoods but also endangers the very essence of their identity, emphasizing the integral connection
between indigenous peoples and their territories.

10. B. COMMON LANGUAGE TREE

11. B. COMMON LANGUAGE TREE
Language diversity globally is a testament to the rich tapestry of human communication, with thousands of
languages tracing back to common ancestral roots. The metaphorical language tree, employed by linguists,
helps elucidate the historical relationships between languages and their evolution over time. Southeast
Asia stands out for its linguistic complexity, shaped by four major language families: Sino-Tibetan, Tai,
Austro-Asiatic, and Austronesian.
Within the Sino-Tibetan family, there are over 400 languages, including Chinese and Tibeto-Burman.
Austronesian languages, spoken across Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific, boast a significant
speaker base of approximately 386 million.

12. B. COMMON LANGUAGE TREE
The Austro-Asiatic family encompasses 169 languages in Southeast Asia, while Tai languages, belonging
to the Kra-Dai family, include widely spoken varieties like Standard Thai and Lao.

13. B. COMMON LANGUAGE TREE
Despite linguistic diversity, certain dominant languages, such as Burmese, Thai, Khmer, and Vietnamese,
play crucial roles in defining national identity within their respective nations. In the Philippines and
Indonesia, linguistic variations are particularly pronounced, especially in fragmented and remote areas,
posing challenges to national integration and development. The influx of immigrant populations introduces
additional languages, with Chinese dialects like Cantonese, Hokkien, Hakka, and Teochew becoming
prevalent in various Southeast Asian countries, particularly Singapore.
Language emerges as a unifying force in some Southeast Asian nations, contributing to cultural identity
and fostering development. The intricate linguistic tapestry not only reflects the region's historical
interactions but also shapes its contemporary cultural landscape. Trade, migration, and diverse language
families have left an indelible mark on Southeast Asia, creating a unique blend of languages that continues
to evolve and shape the region's dynamic cultural mosaic.

14. B. Language and Culture

15. B. LANGUAGE AND CULTURE
Language, beyond its practical elements of sounds and symbols, serves as a multifaceted vehicle for
expressing identity at various levels—individual, communal, and national. It acts as a mirror reflecting the soul
of a society, encapsulating its beliefs, attitudes, and values. The intricate relationship between language and
culture becomes particularly evident in the nuanced interpretations of seemingly simple expressions, such as
the notion of a "good day." In European cultures, it may be associated with sunshine, symbolizing positivity,
while in many African cultures, a "good day" might evoke images of life-sustaining rain, representing a
different set of values deeply rooted in the environment and agricultural practices.
This intertwining of language and culture goes beyond mere linguistic structures; it extends to shared
behavioral patterns and societal norms. When learning a new language, one embarks on a journey not just
into grammar rules and vocabulary but also into the customs and behaviors of the society that speaks that
language. The importance of referencing the culture in language education is underscored by the fact that
language is not an isolated entity but is deeply ingrained in the cultural context it represents. Thus, language
serves not only as a tool for communication but also as a gateway to understanding the intricate tapestry of
human cultures across the globe. In acknowledging this interdependence, we appreciate the richness that
language and culture collectively bring to the diverse mosaic of human expression.

16. B. Origins and Diffusion

17. B. Origins and Diffusion
The intricate web of cultural diffusion in Southeast Asia reveals a dynamic history shaped by the ebb and flow
of influences from various empires and regions. The impact of Indian traders is particularly noteworthy, with
their cultural contributions extending beyond tangible elements like cuisine and architecture to more profound
aspects such as religious beliefs. The introduction of Buddhism from India left an enduring legacy in the art
and architecture of Southeast Asian societies, symbolizing a spiritual connection that transcended
geographical boundaries.
Chinese influences, while significant, are also intertwined with the region's cultural evolution. The emergence
of the Dai Viet Empire in the Red River valley reflects the imprint of Han Chinese traditions, showcasing the
interplay of diverse influences. However, it is crucial to recognize that the complex cosmologies of distant
empires often had limited effects on the majority of the populace, composed mainly of peasants. The
resilience of local traditions and folk customs continues to form the backbone of mass culture, persisting
despite the millennia-long infusion of Indian cultural elements.

18. B. Origins and Diffusion
Southeast Asia stands as a captivating testament to the amalgamation of diverse cultures,
where classical Indian and Chinese contributions have interwoven with indigenous
practices to create a unique tapestry of traditions. This cultural fusion has not only shaped
high culture but has also permeated everyday life, leaving an indelible mark on the identity
of the hundreds of millions who call the region home. The ongoing interplay between
historical influences and contemporary dynamics underscores Southeast Asia's status as a
vibrant crucible of cultural exchange and adaptation.

19. That’s all Thank you!