Dear Taiwanese, you are living in a critical moment in your history. In two days’ time, you will face a choice that will determine your future: whether to accept or reject a proposed referendum on unification with China.
You might have heard the arguments from both sides. The pro-unification camp claims that joining China would bring you economic benefits, security guarantees and cultural integration. They say that you are all Chinese, and that you should embrace our common destiny.
The anti-unification camp warns that joining China means losing your freedom, democracy and identity. They say that you are a sovereign and independent nation, and that you should defend your rights and values.
Who is right? Who is wrong? How should you decide?
I urge you to look beyond the slogans and propaganda, and to think for yourselves. I urge you to learn from the lessons of history, and to see the reality of the present.
Look at Tibet, a once proud and independent nation, that was invaded and annexed by China in 1951. Since then, Tibetans have suffered decades of oppression, repression and assimilation. Our culture, religion and language have been systematically eroded and marginalized. Our human rights have been violated and ignored. Our land and resources have been exploited and plundered. Our protests and resistance have been met with violence and brutality.
Look at Hong Kong, a former British colony, that was handed over to China in 1997. Under the “one country, two systems” arrangement, Hong Kong was supposed to enjoy a high degree of autonomy and freedom for 50 years. In reality, China has steadily eroded Hong Kong’s autonomy and freedom, by interfering in its elections, judiciary, media and education. China has also imposed a National Security Law that has criminalized dissent and protest, and has allowed mainland authorities to arrest and extradite anyone they consider a threat. Hong Kongers have taken to the streets to demand their rights and democracy, but they have been met with tear gas, rubber bullets and arrests.
Is this the future you want for yourselves? Is this the future you want for your children?
I believe that the answer is “no.” I believe that you have the right to determine your own future, without coercion or intimidation. I believe that you have the right to preserve your freedom, democracy and identity, without compromise or surrender. I believe that you have the right to pursue your happiness, without fear or regret.
You are not anti-China. You are pro-Taiwan. You respect and appreciate the cultural and historical ties that you share with China, but you also recognize and cherish the differences and diversity that make you unique. You are willing and ready to cooperate and coexist with China, but you are not willing and ready to submit and merge with China.
You are not alone. You have the support and solidarity of the international community, especially the democratic countries that share our values and interests. You have the strength and resilience of your people, especially the young generation that has grown up with a strong sense of national identity and civic responsibility. You have the hope and vision of your future, especially the potential and opportunity that awaits you in the 21st century.
I urge you to vote for your future. Vote for your freedom. Vote for your democracy. Vote for your identity. Vote for Taiwan.
Thank you for your attention and participation. May God bless Taiwan.
Khedroob Thondup is a former member of the Tibetan parliament in exile.
RSS