Youth trace roots by sharing stories

Young individuals from Taiwan gathered in Beijing to reflect on the shared heritage and historical ties between Taiwan and mainland China, emphasizing the importance of a correct understanding of history and national identity. The event, held at the Taiwan Guild Hall, marked the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s restoration to China and was organized by the All-China Federation of Taiwan Compatriots, China Daily’s national news channel, the Beijing Taiwan Compatriots Association, and the association for relatives of patriots in Taiwan who fought against Japanese occupation. Four youth representatives from Taiwan shared their personal and familial connections to this historical period, highlighting the enduring bonds across the Taiwan Strait. Lo Chih-ying, a 23-year-old from Changhua county, traced her family’s roots back over 300 years to Fujian province, underscoring the deep ancestral ties. Lu Ying-chu, a 21-year-old student from Taipei, recounted the painful history of Taiwan’s cession to Japan in 1895 and the resilience of her great-grandfather during the occupation. Lin Ching-mao, a 26-year-old Peking University student, honored the resistance against Japanese rule, while Lin Kuan-ting from Taipei spoke of the belief that Taiwan’s future is intertwined with the strength of the motherland. The event also featured their participation in a documentary, ‘Stories across the Strait,’ which deepened their historical awareness. Li Zhenguang, dean of the Institute of Taiwan Studies at Beijing Union University, stressed the significance of this historical memory for the younger generation, calling them the hope of the Chinese nation.