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Letter:
Sunday, Nov 24, 2002, Page 8
Which flag to keep flying?
The current debate over the national flag is very interesting ("Pro-independence groups seek referendum," Nov. 14, page 3). Shew Down-kwen (³\µn±X) is quoted as saying, "In 1913, the nationalist government's senate in Nanjing voted for a five-color flag as the national flag of the Republic of China ... However, the KMT decided to replace the five-color flag with its own party flag in 1924."
As we are all aware, this is the present flag officially representing Taiwan and is recognized by most people around the world, even if their own governments do not.
What is of greatest interest is the lack of information regarding the original banner, which, given the accuracy of Shew's statement, should be very pertinent to Taiwan's current dilemma.
It is sparklingly clear that the national flag is indeed a KMT emblem that has been thrust upon the people of Taiwan without consultation or consent.
What is not clear, however, is what alternatives there are and how they could be implemented by the government.
If Shew's assertions are correct then the people of Taiwan, if provided with the correct historical details, may be able to overcome some of their nationalist education biases.
It would be beneficial if your newspaper would shed more light on such issues so that the people of Taiwan can better understand their past and pave the way toward an identity which can truly refute all fraudulent claims of sovereignty.
Looking forward to more information, and perhaps a picture, to contribute to our growing freedom.
David Kinsella
Taipei
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