Filipino youth in Canada honor farmers’ struggle through exhibit

TORONTO– Filipino youth in the diaspora hold the Lupa ay Buhay exhibit in celebration of Peasant Month. Even miles away from the Philippines, Filipino youth continue to stand in solidarity with farmers who remain hungry while feeding the nation.

Despite Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s promises of land reform and programs to improve farmers’ livelihoods, Filipino peasants continue to suffer from landlessness, poverty, and rights violations.

According to the youth group Kamalayan Consciousness, the exhibit sheds light on pressing questions and the realities behind them–how the hard work of peasants is exploited by landlords and corporations, and how the worsening effects of typhoons and floods continue to devastate rural communities while funds meant for relief and disaster prevention are pocketed by corrupt officials.

The group emphasized that the exhibition and accompanying art-making session urge Filipino youth and the broader community to understand why this oppressive system persists, why Filipinos in Canada must care, and how they can take action to support the peasant struggle.

The Lupa ay Buhay exhibit also featured performances by Canada-based Filipino artists and community members showcasing Filipino music and cultural dances including Kat Estacio, Parallel Play Kolektib, Artistang Pinoy Abroad para sa Kalayaan at Karapatan (ARPAK), and Folklorico Filipino Canada. (CAM, RVO)

Photos and Text by Rein Tarinay