Do Not Forget History: New York Taiwan Center Holds Commemorative 228 Concert

On Saturday, March 1st, the Taiwan Associations of Greater New York and the New York Taiwan Center held a “228 Memorial Concert” at the Taiwan Center in New York. Through music and historical lectures, the event aimed to commemorate this period in history, pass down memories, and remind people to cherish the hard-won democracy and freedom.

In his speech, Director Lee Chih-Chiang of the New York Economic and Cultural Office expressed gratitude to the Taiwan Center for organizing the annual commemorative event, emphasizing the importance of not forgetting history. He called for unity among the Taiwanese community to protect the democracy and freedom currently enjoyed in Taiwan and to continue moving forward.

Chairman Hsiao Chung-Cheng of the Taiwan Associations of Greater New York stated that commemorating the 228 Incident is not about assigning blame but about showcasing the hardships and difficulties endured by the Taiwanese people during that period in history.

Chairman Su Chun-Huai of the New York Taiwan Center mentioned that during the 228 Incident in Taiwan, many elites sacrificed themselves, causing a significant impact on Taiwanese society. He praised the courage of the Taiwanese people in facing an unjust system and their collective pursuit of democracy, freedom, and human rights over the past decades, encouraging compatriots to continue their efforts.

This year’s event featured a special lecture by Professor Li Hung-Chi entitled “Memories of 228 and Reflection on What is Taiwan’s Elite,” guiding the audience through the historical context and impact of the 228 Incident. The Taiwan Center Choir performed songs like “Never Dislike Taiwan” and “When We Open the Doors of Our Hearts,” expressing contemplation and reflection on history. The New York Young Lions Youth Orchestra played banned songs from Taiwan including “Spring Breeze,” “Green Island Serenade,” “Waiting for Your Return,” “Grilled Rice Dumplings,” “The Farmer’s Song,” “Moonlit Sorrow,” and “Twilight in Tamsui.”

The New York Taiwanese Women’s Association prepared “228 Memorial Lily Pins” for participants to express their condolences for the victims of the 228 Incident.

Following the event, guests enjoyed squid congee as a commemorative meal, fostering warmth and camaraderie through shared exchanges while reflecting on Taiwan’s history and culture.