On 68th anniversary of 228, mayor hopes for peace, democracy, and unity
On 68th anniversary of 228, mayor hopes for peace, democracy, and unity
Today (2/28), New Taipei City mayor, Chu Liluan, attended the memorial event at the 228 Peace Memorial Park in the Sanchong District. Mayor Chu shook hands with families members of victims of the incident. He led the attendees in minute-long moment of silence and placed flowers before the 228 monument as a sign of remembrance and condolence.
Mayor Chu said that the 228 Incident is an unfortunate event for Taiwan’s society, but it is also a lesson we can learn from; after 68 years, the society should seek to educate the younger generation on the meaning of the 228 Peace Memorial Day. The mayor also said that Taiwan needs to respect the differing of opinions with a peaceful and democratic attitude. The mayor emphasized that this year is the Year of the Sheep, and the sheep symbolic of kindness and peace.
The Civil Affairs Department reported that this year marks the 68th year since the 228 incident. At the beginning of this year New Taipei City established the 228 Federation, who the families of the victims of the incident can contact for more information about the incident. The inaugural federation president, Mr. Hong Xianzhao, said that the facts of the incident has gradually came to light in recent years. Victims and their families are also receiving compensations from the central government. The president said that these are encouraging changes, and he especially thanked the New Taipei City Government for assisting in establishing the federation.
The memorial was a solemn event with peaceful accompaniment. The attendees and guests were encouraged to place flowers. There were a total of 55 victim family members at the event. Among the attendees, Chen Mugui, Hong Xianzao, and Huang Jingwen were present at the 228 Incident. They hope that Taiwan will not forget this piece of history, and through looking at history, Taiwan will improve on human rights of the society at large.
For more information: Civil Affairs Department, Ling Tao, Telephone: 1999 or (02) 2960-3456 ext. 8047