The indigenous women’s rights advocate group Lilak won the 2024 Embassy Human Rights Tulip Award for its remarkable advocacy in defending the rights of indigenous women.
In addition to the Tulip Award trophy and certificate, Lilak also received P1 million as support for a project advancing their advocacy.
Ambassador Marielle Geraedts presented the award during a special ceremony marking International Human Rights Day at the Ambassador’s residence last December 11, 2024.
The Embassy Tulip is an annual award from the Dutch government that recognizes courageous human rights defenders. Since 2021, it has honored individuals and organizations dedicated to making a tangible difference in the fight for human rights. The award is the local counterpart of the Human Rights Tulip, given by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Netherlands.
“For the Netherlands, human rights are more than a core value—they are the foundation of our foreign policy. Every individual, regardless of background, identity, or circumstance, deserves dignity, equality, and respect,” Ambassador Geraedts said. “It is our collective responsibility to make human rights a reality for all.”
Lilak (Purple Action for Indigenous Women’s Rights), a collective of women’s rights activists, indigenous women, and feminists, has long championed gender equality, cultural preservation, and the protection of ancestral lands. Through its advocacy, Lilak empowers indigenous women to take leadership roles and become key contributors to the policy decisions that shape their communities. Their work fosters solidarity, social justice, and ensures that marginalized voices are heard.
Receiving the award on behalf of Lilak, Executive Director Judy Pasimio said, “At Lilak, we are driven by the need to elevate indigenous women’s voices, ensuring they are active participants in social movements and in shaping a society that respects and protects their rights, both as women and as indigenous peoples.”
Ambassador Geraedts praised Lilak for its tireless efforts to empower indigenous women, saying, “Lilak’s work embodies the spirit of the Embassy Tulip Award. They uplift those who have been silenced for too long, ensuring indigenous women’s voices are not just heard but also lead the fight for justice and equality.”
As part of this year’s ceremony, the Embassy also hosted an intimate workshop on digital safety for human rights defenders. The workshop, designed to equip activists with the tools to protect themselves against online threats and harassment, is a recognition of the increasing risks faced by defenders in the digital age.
