Chiang Mai hosts 6th indigenous peoples’ festival

BANGKOK, August 5 (TNA) - The Network of Indigenous Peoples in Thailand, in conjunction with 35 other indigenous networks, Plan International (Thailand) and their extended network throughout the country, will organize the 6th indigenous peoples’ festival in Chiang Mai province in the Thai North from August 7-9, 2013, as part of the Kingdom's observation of the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples. Network of Indigenous Peoples in Thailand Co-ordinator Sakda Sanmee said in a press release, issued on Monday, that the festival will be held at Chiang Mai University's Art Center, at the Kru Ba Sri Wichai Monument and at the four corners of the Chiang Mai Moat. The three-day event also serves as an opportunity for the public to understand the indigenous people’s civil rights, especially indigenous children to prevent them from being victims of harassment and bullying, and it is aimed, as well, to give a chance for the indigenous community to have their say on future government development programs and an occasion to meet and exchange their ideas among fellow indigenous people. During the festival, there will also be a session where the networks will discuss and analyse relevant issues of indigenous people, based on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Framework. The network also plans to present to the Thai government a concrete and practical development strategy for the indigenous people. Besides, there will be academic workshops, public forums and campaigns, as well as cultural activities, indigenous games and shows, souvenir shops and short film screenings. Stickers saying “Empowering Indigenous Voice” will also be handed out to festival goers to help create public awareness on the issue. (TNA)