Taipei City Government

Mayor Ko Wen-Je attended the 73rd 228 Memorial Ceremony on February 28, where he paid his respects to President Tsai, Premier Su, families of 228 victims, guests, and the media. He expressed that the 228 Incident is a major event in Taiwan’s contemporary history; in the past when the authoritarian regime was in power, there was a long period of time when 228 was considered taboo and the truth was covered up. After a new government ushered in the era of democracy, the people of Taiwan can finally discuss the incident openly and shed light on the dark past.

Ko mentioned that over the last 3 decades or so, the government has instituted many policies to address the 228 Incident. After former President Lee Teng-Hui issued an official apology on behalf of the government, a formal process of reconciliation was implemented that include memorials, erection of steles, restoring of reputation, compensation, as well as education in history and human rights, declassification of files, and returned letters. In recent years, although the government’s endeavors in transitional justice are not enough to heal the scars of the past, Taiwan is gradually recovering from grief and embracing social harmony.

According to Ko, he participated in the 520km-long twin lighthouses bicycle challenge on February 28 in 2016 with a group of youths. He was able to complete the seemingly impossible challenge thanks to encouragements from his fellow riders, who strived toward the common goal collectively. Ko hopes to apply the can-do spirit of the twin lighthouses bicycle challenge to remember history in an unconventional way. This year, Ko’s original intention to commemorate history through the positive spirit of the twin lighthouses bicycle challenge was thwarted by the COVID-19 outbreak. Even so, his objective of embracing history with a positive attitude remains unchanged.

The mayor pointed out that although Taiwan has experienced grave challenges from the COVID-19 outbreak over the last month, the situation remains under control through everyone’s collective efforts. In an effort to contain the pandemic effectively, the central government, local governments, and all political parties must join forces to win the battle. The public health emergency is a reminder that despite our different pasts, we are all in this together; whether it is the 228 Incident or the COVID-19 outbreak, we will persevere and strive for the future as a collective entity.

Lastly, Ko commented that we will not dwell in the shadow of the past, and more importantly we will not be defeated by the outbreak. Let us work hand in hand to protect Taiwan and our home. He also wished everyone in the audience health, happiness, and prosperity.