A-bian and a new Taiwan
The twentieth day of May in the year 2000 was a rather poignant turning point for Taiwan. The inauguration of President Chen Shui-bian marked the beginning of a new era, one that has already brought people together and spread warmth across the nation.
As I watched the ceremony and the celebrations from across the Pacific, I was overwhelmed with emotion. Who would have ever thought that this could happen. A man of humble beginnings democratically elected and finally sworn in as the new leader of Taiwan.
He even has his own nickname among the people! Though the formalities were still present, the general atmosphere of the inauguration was relaxed and simply stirring with sentiment.
The presence and the performances of various ethnic groups at the outdoor celebration, including the Aboriginal pop star Chang Hui-mei (張惠妹), added substantially to the feeling of harmony that seemed to exude from the festivities.
The celebration was not merely extended to the public, but it was for the public. Even during the ceremonies, the closeness between the new leaders and the citizens was unmistakable, and it reflected the overall significance of this long-awaited transition.
Taiwan is on her way, and for once, it does not seem as if the people and the government are two separate entities.
However, I would have been even more convinced, had any of the ex-presidential candidates bothered to attend.
Unfortunately, their absence suggests to me that their pride and inability to accept their loss gracefully overpowers their support and love for their people.
Emily C. Chou
Vancouver, British
Columbia, Canada
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