2008 台灣文化節特刊

President’s Remarks

WELCOME TO THE TAIWANESE AMERICAN CULTURAL FESTIVAL at Union Square Plaza in San Francisco. Each May, Taiwanese-American organizations across the United States hold annual events during Taiwanese American Heritage Week. These events aim to share the unique culture of Taiwan, showcase the country’s economic and democratic progress, and share the story of Taiwan’s geography and history with the American people. We hope that these events will foster understanding and cultivate mutual friendship between the people of the United States and Taiwan.

Taiwan is a beautiful island located at the southwest corner of the Pacific Ocean, between Japan and the Philippines. With a population of 23 million people, Taiwan is a democratic country with a booming economy, as it is a leading producer of technology exported to the rest of the world.

The theme of this year’s festival is “Remembering the Past, Transforming the Future.” Our mission is to recognize and celebrate Taiwan’s traditional culture and history, acknowledge the dynamic changes occurring today, and bring our island to the world stage.

This festival will feature a Taiwanese ten-drum performance, traditional dance, food delicacies, arts and crafts, and the latest technological products.

Many thanks to our generous financial contributors and to the hardworking volunteers who have made this event possible and worthwhile. We would also like to thank the many public officials who sent congratulatory letters, and the City of San Francisco for providing a wonderful facility and valuable help. Finally, we are very grateful to the government of Taiwan for their assistance.

Ma-chi Chen President/Taiwanese American Federation of Northern California