Taiwan’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day is on Aug. 1. It was designated a national holiday by former president Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) in 2005. Former president Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) formally apologized to Taiwan’s indigenous peoples in 2016 for the suffering they had faced from the government in the past. These are two important milestones for Taiwan’s indigenous peoples.
Indigenous people in Taiwan are distinct ethnic groups that do not belong to China, and are the best evidence of a unique Taiwanese identity.
A small number of indigenous politicians who identify with China have fallen into the arms of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and proclaimed themselves to be Chinese ethnic minorities. To Taiwanese indigenous people, this is akin to betraying their ancestors in pursuit of glory.
Only by recognizing Taiwan and supporting its pro-localization political parties can indigenous people have a brighter future.
For a country built on a Taiwanese identity, indigenous people are not only living history, but also a point of pride for Taiwan. They have lived in Taiwan for at least 6,000 years. Most of the kingdoms and societies established by these indigenous people have never been ruled by Chinese empires.
Young indigenous people who have received Taiwan-based education are passionate about resistance, progress and innovation, but a majority of indigenous communities still have predominantly aging populations.
If indigenous groups seek innovation and want to bring more recognition to their communities, they need young people’s power and influence.
Achieving immediate results starts from changing the electoral culture.
The young generation should lead the charge in eliminating “black gold” politics among indigenous groups.
The change must start by allowing more capable young indigenous people to participate in elections, carrying out thorough reforms from within the system. This is a move toward transitional justice for indigenous peoples and returning of their self-determination and value.
Chen Chi-nung is a political commentator.
Translated by Nicole Wong
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