A descendant of a well-known Aboriginal leader yesterday called on all Aborigines to be rational when confronting issues concerning their affairs.
Noting recent frequent demonstrations by various Aboriginal groups as well as an upcoming demonstration set for Saturday, Laihsin (馬來盛), grandson of famous Aboriginal leader Mateli (馬智禮), expressed his concern that the motives behind these events might not be pure.
Next Saturday's demonstration, purposely set to follow Retrocession Day on Friday, will hear calls for the retrocession of Aboriginal land.
"I take comfort in that fact that many of today's Aboriginal young people are concerned about issues that matter to them such as Aboriginal autonomy and ownership of ancestral land," Laihsin said.
"However, it is of great concern to me that, being young and inexperienced, some interest groups might take advantage of these youngsters' emotions and use them to achieve other ends," Laihsin said.
Laihsin added that he is worried that some actions by special interest groups would only further harm relations between Aborigines and the Han.
Admitting that his grandfather has greatly influenced the way he thinks, Laihsin said he believes that all things can be achieved via peaceful means.
"If an issue can be solved by sitting down and engaging in rational communication, why the use of aggressive means and the further disturbance of society?" Laihsin said, adding that a meeting at the Legislative Yuan or similar means could be used to get the government's attention.
Laihsin said he wants to urge Aborigines who take to the streets to fully understand the issues involved and to avoid participating simply because of the excitement that protests generate.
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