Apart from my research and academic work, I have been, and must be, actively involved on the ground. I am advocating for Indigenous peoples’ rights in education, gender and sexuality justice, LGBTQIA+ rights, and Palestine. My aim is to go beyond theory, focusing on real-world impact through collaboration, public engagement, and capacity-building efforts. Whether through grassroots initiatives, policy discussions, or educational outreach, I am committed to bridging research and action to push for meaningful change.
Indigenous Peoples’ Rights
I follow the movements of the Indigenous peoples not just in the Philippines but also around the world. I currently volunteer in the following organizations:
Katribu Kalipunan ng Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas (KATRIBU)
KATRIBU is the national alliance of Indigenous Peoples organizations in the Philippines. Moro and Indigenous Peoples are fighting ongoing plunder, discrimination, government neglect, and human rights violations. Guided by the wisdom and traditions of our ancestors, we work towards sustainable agriculture, responsible resource management, and environmental protection. Instagram: @katribuphils
Liyang’s 2024 Education is a Right! Campaign calls upon Filipinos and the international community, to support education for the children of environmental and human rights defenders in the Philippines, and to educate ourselves on the broader struggles they are a part of. If you would like to help, please consider donating [here]. Instagram: @liyang_network
Free Palestine and BDS Movement
Advocating for Indigenous peoples’ rights is deeply connected to broader struggles for self-determination, justice, and liberation, and one of the most urgent of these is the fight for Palestine’s freedom. From Japan, I actively support and engage with volunteer-led movements and initiatives that amplify voices and raise awareness for Palestine.
- Palestine, Our Warm Home パレスチナあたたかい家 – A volunteer-led art exhibit and project that brings together works dedicated to raising awareness about Palestine among Japan-based audiences.
- Namnam Space – A queer-run collective and community space in Koenji, Tokyo, dedicated to supporting Palestine through advocacy, education, and solidarity events.
- Boycott, divest and sanction (BDS) through BDNaash.
Gender, Sexuality and LGBTQIA+ Rights
As a member of the queer community, I advocate for gender justice, women’s rights, sexual and reproductive health rights, and LGBTQ+ rights. My work is rooted in the belief that equity, inclusion, and bodily autonomy are fundamental to social justice. Through research, education, and community engagement, I support efforts that challenge discrimination, expand access to rights-based education, and create safer, more affirming spaces for marginalized identities. Whether through academic discourse, activism, or grassroots initiatives, I am committed to advancing gender and sexuality justice in all its intersections.