Igorots are still arguing whether they should be called Igorot. But for all its worth, some might forget that there are several points where they agree.
- They agree, for one, that Igorot means ‘from the mountain’ or ‘mountain dweller.’
- Secondly, they agree that there are several derogatory connotations attached to the name.
In the end, it’s all a matter of highland pride or lowland prejudice.
well… i think that what individuals make of the word igorot defines that word…yes there are degoratory connotations… but if one must choose to change the igorot word the underlying problem still exists simply because its in our heritage… and yes we ‘dwell in the mountains’ it does not mean ‘literally’… the cordillera are surrounded by beautiful, majestic mountains which are one of the reasons that we are so proud to be ‘igorots’… we have mastered the way of ‘living in the mountains’ (ie. rice terraces)… so why the change… people just need to be aware, we need to educate, spread the word that they shouldnt judge a person, a culture, a heritage by its classification… it should be respected…
Meeden Aliping
New Zealand
‘Igorotak’ and proud of it