LILAK (Purple Action for Indigenous Women’s Rights) was recognized for its work in advocating for the rights of indigenous women, as well as, championing gender equality, cultural preservation, and the protection of ancestral lands.
The 2024 Embassy Human Rights Tulip Award was presented to LILAK (Purple Action for Indigenous Women’s Rights) in recognition of its outstanding advocacy for the rights of indigenous women. The award was presented by Ambassador Marielle Geraedts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the Philippines during a special ceremony on International Human Rights Day, held at the Ambassador’s residence on 11 December 2024.
The Embassy Tulip is an annual award given by the Dutch government to honor courageous human rights defenders. Since its inception in 2021, the award has recognized individuals and organizations making a significant impact in the fight for human rights. It is the local counterpart to the Human Rights Tulip, awarded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Netherlands.
“For the Netherlands, human rights are not just a core value — they are the foundation of our foreign policy. Every individual, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances, deserves dignity, equality, and respect,” Ambassador Geraedts stated.
“It is our collective responsibility to make human rights a reality for all.”
LILAK, a collective of women’s rights activists, indigenous women, and feminists, has long been a champion of gender equality, cultural preservation, and the protection of ancestral lands. Through its advocacy, LILAK empowers indigenous women to take leadership roles and influence the policy decisions that shape their communities. Their work fosters solidarity, social justice, and amplifies the voices of marginalized groups.
Receiving the award on behalf of LILAK, executive director Judy Pasimio emphasized, “At LILAK, we are committed to elevating indigenous women’s voices, ensuring their active participation in social movements, and creating a society that respects and protects their rights, both as women and as indigenous peoples.”
Ambassador Geraedts commended LILAK for its tireless efforts to empower indigenous women, stating, “LILAK’s work embodies the spirit of the Embassy Tulip Award. They uplift those who have been silenced for far too long, ensuring that indigenous women’s voices not only echo but lead the fight for justice and equality.”
In addition to the Tulip Award trophy and certificate, LILAK was granted P1,000,000 to support a project further advancing their advocacy.
As part of the ceremony, the Embassy also hosted an intimate workshop on digital safety for human rights defenders. This workshop, designed to equip activists with tools to protect themselves against online threats and harassment, recognizes the growing risks faced by defenders in the digital age.
