On October 20th, the Overseas Chinese National Salvation Union’s Southwest Office hosted the 72nd Overseas Chinese Festival and the Double Tenth Day Celebration for the 113th year of the Republic of China in Chinatown. Many prominent leaders from the overseas Chinese community gathered to show their support for the event. This gathering highlighted the significant contributions and support of overseas Chinese individuals toward the Republic of China (Taiwan), recognizing their vital role in promoting freedom, democracy, and prosperity in Taiwan.
Wen Guanghua, the director of the Southwest Office, expressed gratitude in his speech for the long-standing support from overseas Chinese for the development of the Republic of China. He emphasized that whether it be rescuing the nation, establishing the state, or promoting Taiwan’s economic development, overseas Chinese have always stood united with the Republic of China.
Wen pointed out that Taiwan is set to play four key roles on the international stage in the future: as a leader in technological innovation (AI), a defender of regional order and democratic values, a promoter of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and a contributor to global humanitarian efforts. He called on overseas Chinese to continue their steadfast support for the Republic of China and highlighted their crucial role in the nation’s historical development. Wen expressed his hope that the descendants of overseas Chinese would actively integrate into mainstream society and become strong supporters of the Republic of China, stating, “The younger generation should not only embrace their culture but also serve as a bridge connecting Taiwan and the United States.”
Chen Minyong, director of the Los Angeles Overseas Chinese Center, elaborated on four important stages of overseas Chinese contributions to the country. He identified the first stage as the support provided by overseas Chinese in the efforts of Sun Yat-sen to overthrow the Qing Dynasty and establish the Republic of China. The second stage occurred during the eight-year Anti-Japanese War, where overseas Chinese supported the war through various means. The third stage involves the promotion of freedom and democratic development in Taiwan, making it a key player in the region that shares democratic values. Finally, the fourth stage is manifested when Taiwan faces natural disasters or significant challenges, with overseas Chinese always the first to extend a helping hand, exemplifying selfless dedication. Chen emphasized, “These four stages clearly illustrate the important position of overseas Chinese in the history of the Republic of China, and regardless of changing times, these contributions must not be erased.”
Many notable leaders attended the Overseas Chinese Festival, including Li Jinsheng, chairman of the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, senior advisor Ma Peidao, Zhang Zihao from the Pan-American Chinese Association, Liao Meihua from the Overseas Community Affairs Council, and Yang Zhenan, chairman of the Southern California Veterans Association. Each guest took a turn to speak, reaffirming the determination of overseas Chinese to support the Republic of China and wishing for a bright future for their fellow overseas Chinese.
