Who are Indigenous Peoples?

Indigenous Peoples are the original inhabitants of a region who maintain distinct cultural, social, economic, and political traditions that are deeply rooted in their ancestral territories. Their identities are shaped not only by historical continuity but also by their ongoing resistance to assimilation and marginalization. 

The following core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples:

There are approximately 476 million Indigenous people across 90 countries, representing over 5,000 distinct cultures.

1. Self-identification. The most widely accepted criterion is that Indigenous Peoples identify themselves as such. This self-ascription is recognized by international bodies like the United Nations.

2. Historical continuity. They trace their lineage and cultural practices back to pre-colonial or pre-industrial societies that developed on their territories.

3. Distinct cultural systems. Indigenous communities often have unique languages, belief systems, rituals, governance structures, and ways of relating to the land.

4. Strong territorial connection. Their identity is often inseparable from their ancestral lands, which are central to their spirituality, economy, and worldview.

5. Collective rights.  Unlike individual-based legal systems, Indigenous Peoples often emphasize collective ownership and stewardship of land and resources.

Global Presence and Diversity

This includes groups such as:
  • The Ainu of Japan
  • The Sámi of Northern Europe (Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia)
  • The Quechua and Aymara of the Andes in South America
  • The Igorot, Lumad, and Aeta peoples of the Philippines
  • The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of Australia
  • The Inuit of the Arctic regions of Canada, Greenland, and Alaska
These communities represent over 5,000 distinct cultures, each with its own language, traditions, and worldview

Presence in every inhabited continent and climate zone
  • In the Arctic tundra, the Inuit have adapted to extreme cold with traditional hunting and fishing practices.
  • In the Amazon rainforest, the Yanomami and Kayapo peoples live in harmony with the forest, practicing sustainable agriculture and medicine.
  • In tropical Southeast Asia, the Orang Asli of Malaysia and the Mangyan of the Philippines maintain forest-based livelihoods and oral traditions.
Shared challenges despite diversity?
  • In Brazil, Indigenous communities face illegal logging and land invasions.
  • In Canada, the legacy of residential schools has led to intergenerational trauma and cultural loss.
  • In India, many Adivasi groups struggle with displacement due to mining and infrastructure projects.
  • In the Philippines, ancestral domains are often threatened by development without free, prior, and informed consent. (Retrieved from: www. Worldbank.org and www.Peopleoftheworld.org)
Question:

In what ways do the core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples contribute to their resilience in the face of globalization and cultural assimilation?

Post your response in the comment section, then choose another response to reply with your opinion

67 comments:

  1. For me the core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples help them stay strong and keep their culture alive, even when the world is changing because of globalization and cultural assimilation.

    Self- Identification - They are proud of who they are. Calling themselves Indigenous helps them protect their identity and fight for their rights.

    Historical continuity – Their connection to the past gives them strength. They remember their history, stories, and traditions, which helps them stay united and strong.

    Distinct cultural systems – Their own languages, beliefs, and ways of life make their communities special.

    Strong territorial connection – Their land is very important to them. It is part of who they are.

    Collective rights – They believe in sharing and working together as a community.

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  2. The core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples serve as a foundation for their resilience, because through that their identity is strengthened. Their unique qualities are continuously protected and passed down. The knowledge and values that continue to thrive are what help them resist any changes that may occur in modern challenges.

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  3. One way Indigenous People demonstrate their resilience is through the integration of the element of globalization into their traditional practices.

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  4. Indigenous Peoples, such as a strong sense of community, deep connection to land, contribute to their resilience in the face of globalization. These attributes help them to preserve their cultural identity, and resist the erasure of their unique ways of life.

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  5. 3-3C-25
    Indigenous peoples' core characteristics promote resistance against globalization and cultural assimilation by promoting cultural persistence, communal attachment, and adaptive capability, allowing them to survive external forces without compromising their unique identity.

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  6. 14-3C -25

    Their cultural values deep connection to their land, unique languages,and tight-knit communities help them hold on to thier , identity,even when modern influences try to change or erase their traditions.

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  7. Indigenous peoples are resilient because of their strong culture, close ties to their land, ability to adapt, and working together to protect their rights. Even though they face many challenges, these strengths help them survive and thrive.

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  8. The core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples help them stay strong even when the world is changing fast because of globalization and cultural assimilation. Their deep connection to their land, traditions, and community gives them a strong identity. They pass down knowledge, stories, and customs from one generation to another. This helps them remember who they are and where they come from. Even if outside cultures try to change them, they keep practicing their own ways of life. Their strong family ties, language, and beliefs help them protect their culture and survive challenges.

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  9. Strong cultures help Indigenous Peoples stay strong. Sharing knowledge keeps traditions alive. Working together makes communities resilient. Fighting for rights protects their way of life. Adapting to change helps them survive.

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  10. The core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples, such as their strong connection to ancestral lands and rich cultural traditions, provide a solid foundation for their identity, helping them resist the pressures of globalization and cultural assimilation. Additionally, their emphasis on community solidarity and adaptability enables them to advocate for their rights and navigate modern challenges while preserving their unique cultural heritage.

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  11. Indigenous Peoples' resilience against globalization stems from their strong connection to land, communal values, rich traditions, and cultural pride. Their languages, oral histories, and sustainable practices, combined with political activism, ensure their survival and cultural continuity.

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  12. Indigenous peoples have a powerful foundation that serves their resilience in the face of globalization and cultural assimilation.Their characteristics deeply intertwined,enable them to adapt to external pressure and maintain their distinct identities while preserving their heritage.

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  13. 9-3C-25
    The core characteristics provide the internal strength, cultural tools, and collective agency necessary to navigate the challenges of globalization, adapt strategically, and resist full assimilation, thereby preserving their unique identities and contributions to global diversity.

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  14. The Indigenous people showing their resilience in facing the globalization and cultural assimilation through their strong sense of identity and belonging like in their unique language, traditions and other practices. Allows them to maintain a sense of self in facing challenges

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  15. In my own understanding, The core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples help them stay strong even when faced with globalization and cultural assimilation. Globalization means that people around the world are becoming more connected, and cultural assimilation happens when one group starts to lose its traditions and begins to follow the ways of a stronger or bigger group. Indigenous Peoples have faced these changes for many years, but their core traits give them the strength to keep their identity and culture.

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  16. 35-3C-25
    Indigenous Peoples are incredibly strong because their core characteristics like their unique cultures, traditions, and values act as a powerful anchor for their identity. This strong sense of self is constantly strengthen as their special qualities are protected and passed down through generations. The deep knowledge and values that continue to develop within their communities are what enable them to resist the pressures of modern challenges and adapt without losing who they are.

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  17. 27-3C-25

    SELF IDENTIFICATION Helps them maintain their unique identity and resist cultural assimilation. HISTORICAL CONTINUITY Provides a deep connection to their past, preserving their heritage. DISTINCT CULTURAL SYSTEM Offers alternative world views and practices that buffer against global influences. TERRITORIAL CONNECTION Fosters a sense of place and helps protect their environment and resources. COLLECTIVE RIGHTS Strengthens their ability to assert their interests and defend their territories.Together, these characteristics help indigenous peoples preserve their culture, protect their lands, and maintain their autonomy in the face of globalization and cultural assimilation.

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  18. Indigenous Peoples' resilience in the face of globalization and cultural assimilation is rooted in their strong cultural identity, traditional knowledge and practices, community and collective decision-making, spiritual connection to ancestral lands, adaptability and flexibility, and resistance and activism. These core characteristics enable them to preserve their cultural heritage, maintain their rights and self-determination, giving sustainable development, and build community and solidarity. By embracing their unique identities and knowledge, Indigenous Peoples can know the challenges of globalization while preserving their heritage and promoting a more equitable and sustainable future.

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  19. Indigenous Peoples stay resilient because they hold on to their strong traditions, deep connection to land, close family ties, and shared values. These core characteristics help them protect their identity, pass on knowledge, and stay united even when faced with the pressures of globalization and cultural change.

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  20. Indigenous People are known to be resilient simply because they rely on their own and to their companions. They able to maintain their lineage and culture amidst globalization and cultural assimilation by continual practice of their rich culture and strong mutual connection with each other. Indigenous people brings inspiration, that amidst the changes they stay firm with their principles and way of living

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  21. The core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples serve as a foundation for their resilience, because through that their identity is strengthened. Their unique qualities are continuously protected and passed down. The knowledge and values that continue to thrive are what help them resist pressure while adapting to modern challenges

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  22. When we talk about "who is indigenous people are". These are the communities that have maintained their unique identities, languages, and ways of life despite centuries of change around them. But defining exactly who qualifies as “indigenous” isn’t as straightforward as you might think. It’s a complex topic that involves history, culture, politics, and deeply personal questions of identity.

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  23. In my opinion, the Indigenous Peoples stay strong against globalization and cultural assimilation because of their firm connection to their land. Many of them still choose to live in their ancestral land, especially if these lands have not been turned into cities or businesses. By living close to nature and away from modern life, they are able to keep their traditions, beliefs, and ways of governance. This strong bond keeps their culture alive amidst the influence of modern world.

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  24. Indigenous Peoples stay strong against the pressures of globalization and cultural change because of who they are and how they live. They know and proudly identify as Indigenous, which helps them stay true to their roots. Their traditions, stories, and ways of life have been passed down for many generations, giving them a deep sense of belonging and history. Their culture—like their language, beliefs, and customs—is unique and keeps their identity alive. Their strong connection to their land also helps them stay grounded, as it’s not just a place but a part of who they are. Lastly, their way of living together as a community, sharing responsibilities and rights, makes them even stronger when facing outside challenges. All these things work together to help them hold on to their identity and values, no matter how much the world around them changes.

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  25. 243A25
    The core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples—such as self-identification, historical continuity, distinct cultural systems, strong ties to ancestral land, and collective rights—strengthen their resilience against globalization and cultural assimilation. These traits preserve their identity, foster unity, and maintain deep-rooted traditions, allowing them to adapt to modern changes while protecting their heritage and way of life.

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  26. Indigenous Peoples show resilience to globalization and cultural assimilation through their strong cultural identity, connection to their ancestral land, and close family and community relationships. Their traditional knowledge, languages, and customs are passed down from generation to generation, helping them keep their way of life alive. Even when faced with modern changes, they find ways to adapt without losing their values. Their respect for nature, spirituality, and cooperation within the community gives them strength to face challenges and protect their heritage.

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  27. In my opinion, Indigenous People have very unique characteristics and also different cultures that's why to preserve it they tend to not leave it all for the government and sometimes they do not trust them. For instance their self-identity trait, it brought them to be featured and to be known to the world for people to be aware of their beliefs and cultures. And for me, they are the best example of the word "preservation".

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  28. The ability of Indigenous Peoples to adjust to change while maintaining their sense of identity is what makes them resilient. In the face of globalization, their fundamental traits enable people to assert and reclaim their rights, culture, and knowledge systems in addition to withstanding outside influences.

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  29. 083A25
    Indigenous people are the ones who were shaped and born not only to maintain distinct natural heritage but also their assistance to ongoing assimilation and marginalization. Indigenous people have the ability to adopt in changes while maintaining their natural identity.

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  30. Indigenous Peoples remain resilient because they love their culture, land, and traditions very much. These underlying values keep them grounded even if the world around them is changing.

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  31. Indigenous peoples, despite facing numerous challenges, demonstrate remarkable resilience. Their unique cultural practices and traditions, often shared with and appreciated by wider society, contribute to their strength and perseverance. Their history and inherent skills command attention and admiration, highlighting their enduring contributions to the world.

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  32. 153A25
    Indigenous peoples are the original inhabitants of a region before colonization or outside settlement. They maintain cultural, historical, and ancestral ties to their land.

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  33. 93A25
    Indigenous Peoples remain resilient in the face of globalization and cultural assimilation due to their strong cultural identity, intergenerational knowledge, and deep connection to nature. Their adaptability, use of traditional practices, and collective rights advocacy empower them to preserve their heritage. Social cohesion and spiritual values also help maintain unity and resistance, allowing them to assert their identity and thrive despite external pressures.

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  34. 133A25

    For me, Indigenous Peoples stay strong because they hold on to their culture, beliefs, and traditions. That’s one of the reasons why they are able to survive and stay firm even with all the changes brought by globalization. Even though many outside influences try to change them, they remain true to their way of life.

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  35. The resilience of Indigenous Peoples is not passive survival but an active process of adaptation, innovation, and resistance. Their core characteristics provide the foundation for this resilience, enabling them to navigate the challenges of globalization while preserving their unique cultures and striving for self-determination. Their ability to blend tradition with adaptation ensures the continued existence of their unique cultural heritage.

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  36. 283A25
    Indigenous Peoples have been able to resist the impacts of globalization because of their strong social ties, pride in their culture, and close connection to the land. In so doing, they keep their traditions and languages alive, practicing ecologically sustainable forms of living so as to adapt to change without compromising their moral integrity. These characteristics enable them to resist cultural assimilation and protect their heritage.

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  37. Promoting identity, unity, and continuity encompasses aspects of Indigenous Peoples' distinctive characteristics that enhance resiliency. These characteristics foster individuals' ability to retain their cultural history and defend their rights as they confront assimilation pressures while adapting to aspects of globalization.

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  38. 233A25
    Indigenous Peoples exhibit profound resilience against globalization and cultural assimilation through their deeply rooted core characteristics. Their strong connection to ancestral lands provides a stable foundation for identity and traditional practices, while their extensive Traditional Knowledge Systems offer sustainable alternatives to conventional approaches. Vibrant cultural practices and oral traditions ensure the intergenerational transmission of knowledge and reinforce collective identity. The pursuit of self-governance and determination allows Indigenous communities to prioritize culturally relevant development, and their inherent adaptive capacity enables them to selectively engage with globalization while preserving their core values.

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  39. 33-3A-25

    ‎Strong Cultural Identity
    ‎Indigenous Peoples maintain a deep connection to their traditions, languages, and customs. This strong cultural foundation helps them preserve their identity even when facing outside influences.

    ‎Close Relationship with Nature
    ‎Their knowledge of the land and sustainable living practices helps them adapt to environmental and economic changes. This connection to nature supports their self-sufficiency and well-being.

    ‎Tight-Knit Community Support
    ‎Indigenous communities value unity, cooperation, and collective decision-making. This strong social bond provides emotional and practical support during times of change or crisis.

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  40. 363A25
    International and national legal systems have made progress in recognizing Indigenous rights, especially through instruments like UNDRIP and national laws in countries like Canada and Bolivia. However, enforcement is often weak, and state interests such as resource extraction frequently override these rights. As a result, Indigenous Peoples still face land loss, cultural erosion, and limited self-determination. Legal protections exist, but their real-world impact remains limited.

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  41. 363A25 (namali lagay sa una, ito na talaga)

    Core characteristics like self-identification and historical continuity help Indigenous Peoples preserve identity and resist cultural erasure. Their distinct cultural systems and strong territorial connection sustain traditions and deepen resilience. Collective rights promote unity and self-determination, strengthening their ability to face globalization and assimilation.

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  42. Indigenous Peoples stay strong through their deep connection to land, close community ties, rich oral traditions, adaptability, spiritual values, and pride in their identity. These core traits help them protect their culture and survive the pressures of globalization and assimilation.

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  43. 163A25

    - Indigenous people are the original inhabitants of a region, often with distinct cultural, linguistic, and spiritual traditions that differ from the dominant society. They have a deep connection to their ancestral lands.

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  44. The core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples—such as strong community bonds, deep spiritual ties to land, rich oral traditions, and cultural continuity—help them stay resilient despite pressures from globalization and assimilation. These values strengthen identity, promote self-reliance, and preserve heritage across generations.

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  45. the resilience of Indigenous Peoples doesn’t come from just resisting change it comes from holding tightly to what grounds them while choosing how to engage with the modern world. Their values, knowledge systems, and community bonds aren’t relics of the past they’re living sources of strength that continue to evolve, inspire, and guide survival in a rapidly changing world.

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  46. 2-3A-25

    The six core characteristics of indigenous people help them preserve what they are protecting. Moreover, these characteristics give them the authority to choose whether they adapt, transform, or resist various modern ways of living. Lastly, these help them to keep united and build a strong foundation against globalization and cultural assimilation.

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  47. 103A25
    In the face of globalization and cultural assimilation, the core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples play an important role in helping them remain resilient despite these challenges. These characteristics keep their culture alive. Their choice to identify as Indigenous is respected by organizations, which helps protect their identity. Their traditions, languages, and way of life passed down from generation to generation help preserve their history.Their unique culture makes them different from the rest of society. Their deep connection to their ancestral land, which is not just a place to live but a part of who they are, strengthens their identity. Lastly, their strong unity, where everyone works together to protect their culture.

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  48. 53A25

    Indigenous Peoples’ strong community bonds, cultural traditions, and deep connection to land help them resist globalization and assimilation. Their shared knowledge, values, and identity strengthen resilience and preserve their way of life across generations.

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  49. 353A25

    Indigenous Peoples' resilience in the face of cultural assimilation and globalization is greatly influenced by their fundamental traits. These characteristics include strong community bonds, deep-rooted cultural traditions, spiritual beliefs, adaptive knowledge systems, and a connection to ancestral lands.

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  50. 43A25

    Indigenous Peoples' resilience in the face of cultural assimilation and globalization is largely attributed to their fundamental traits. First of all, they have a strong sense of identity and pride due to their strong self-identification as Indigenous, which fortifies their unity and dedication to maintaining their way of life. Their pre-colonial traditions serve as the foundation for their historical continuity, which aids in the transmission of cultural values and practices from one generation to the next.

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  51. 143A25
    Indigenous people are the first people who lived in a place before others came. They have their own language, beliefs, traditions, and way of life. They are very close to nature and take care of their land. In the Philippines, examples of indigenous groups are the Aeta, Igorot, Lumad, and Mangyan. These groups are proud of their culture and history. We should respect indigenous people and help protect their rights and traditions.

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  52. 333A25

    The core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples, such as strong community ties, deep spiritual and cultural connections to ancestral lands, and intergenerational knowledge systems, contribute to their resilience in the face of globalization and cultural assimilation. These traits help preserve identity, ensure cultural continuity, and support collective resistance against external pressures. Their commitment to self-determination and cultural autonomy also strengthens their ability to protect and sustain their way of life.

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  53. 083A25

    The cultural strength, community solidarity, and deep-rooted identity of Indigenous Peoples are what allow them to resist erasure, revive endangered practices, and assert their rights in an increasingly globalized world. These characteristics make them not only resilient but also vital contributors to global discussions on sustainability, justice, and diversity

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  54. 083A25


    Indigenous Peoples’ deep-rooted traditions, community strength, and cultural pride make them remarkably resilient. These core characteristics act as shields and tools to preserve their identity, defend their rights, and thrive even under the pressures of globalization and assimilation.

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  55. Indigenous People are the original inhabitants of a region, living there long before others came. They have distinct traditions, languages, and ways of life that are closely tied to nature and their ancestral land.

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  56. The core characteristics, self-identification, historical continuity, distinct cultural systems, strong territorial connection and collective rights are like their protection and power. These help them stay strong, adjust to changes, and not lose their way of life in a fast-changing world. By helping one another and being proud of their traditions, they continue to grow and fight for their rights so their children and grandchildren can keep their culture alive.

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  57. Indigenous Peoples maintain their culture through self-identification, historical continuity, distinctive cultural systems, strong connection to their land, and collective rights. They teach their children their traditions, language, and way of life, while protecting their land for food, shelter, and spiritual meaning. These core characteristics help them stay strong and protect their culture amidst globalization and cultural assimilation.

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  58. Indigenous Peoples remain strong despite the challenges brought by globalization and cultural assimilation. Their deep connection to the land gives them strength and a clear sense of identity. For them, the land is sacred and provides food, medicine, and spiritual meaning. They also have rich traditions passed down through stories, songs, and practices. These traditions help preserve their culture and teach the youth about their roots. Indigenous communities value unity and helping one another. Their strong family and community ties keep them connected and supported. Their spiritual beliefs teach them to live in harmony with nature. Even as the world changes, they adapt by using technology and education to protect their culture. These core values and practices help Indigenous Peoples stay resilient and proud of who they are.

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  59. Indigenous Peoples are incredibly resilient, and this resilience is rooted in their unique way of life. Even though globalization and cultural assimilation try to influence or even erase many traditional ways of living, Indigenous communities have shown strong resistance. One big reason is their deep connection to the land. For many Indigenous groups, the land is not just a place to live, it’s part of who they are. Their stories, songs, rituals, and beliefs are tied to nature. This strong bond helps keep their identity alive. They also have a communal lifestyle where families and tribes support each other. This sense of unity and shared responsibility makes it harder for outside forces to completely change them.

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  60. Indigenous Peoples are able to stay strong because of their deep connection to their land, strong community bonds, and respect for traditions. Their land is not just a place to live but a part of their identity. Their close knit communities help one another and pass on their culture through stories, language, and practices. Even with the pressure of globalization and modern influences, these core values help them keep their way of life and protect their identity.

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  61. Indigenous Peoples stay strong by staying connected to their land, traditions, and communities, which helps them keep their identity and adapt to changes. They combine traditional knowledge with modern tools to handle the challenges of globalization and protect their culture. By saving their languages, standing up for their rights, and looking after the land, they continue to resist outside pressure to change.

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  62. Indigenous people was known for being weak, but they are not. Their connection to each other and to their lands was so strong that it can't be shaken by the government. They will always fight for their rights, especially for their lands. Globalization doesn't affect them because they value their own culture, ways of living, and belief. Their core values helps them to stay stiff and connected with each other.

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  63. Indigenous Peoples stay resilient because of their strong connection to their land, traditions, and community. Their values of unity, respect for nature, and passing down knowledge through stories and practices help them keep their identity. Even with globalization and cultural assimilation, these core characteristics guide them to protect their culture and adapt without losing who they are.

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  64. The core characteristics of Indigenous Peoples serve as a powerful foundation for their resilience against globalization and cultural assimilation. Their strength comes from a deep-seated connection to their ancestral lands, a strong sense of community, and the continuity of their cultural practices. These are;
    Land and Identity-The relationship between Indigenous Peoples and their ancestral lands goes beyond mere ownership; it's a spiritual and cultural connection.
    Community and Collective Action-Indigenous communities are typically built on principles of collective responsibility and communal well-being.
    Cultural Continuity and Traditional Knowledge-The transmission of traditional knowledge, languages, and rituals is crucial for Indigenous survival.

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  65. Indigenous Peoples show resilience to cultural assimilation by relying on their strong, traditional cultures. Their cultural identity and spirituality, which connect them to their land and beliefs, act as a shield against outside influences.
    Strong community bonds and social structures provide a support network, helping them to collectively protect their heritage. Finally, their traditional knowledge and practices, passed down through generations, are a living testament to their enduring way of life and offer sustainable alternatives to global models

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