Tainan, Taiwan
Taiwan’s history hasn’t always been the happiest, but as I continue to learn more of our rich and unique history I will always hold my head high when saying that I’m Taiwanese. Our parents and generations before them have struggled to let Taiwan’s voice be heard, a responsibility that now falls on our shoulders.
Who are you?
I am a 2nd generation Taiwanese American from Ohio. A few years after college I moved out to Taiwan and have been here ever since (almost nine years). My passions are basketball, hip hop and the global struggle for Taiwanese identity.
What do you do?
Having an open, independent media is vital to the development of any country. Unfortunately, as Taiwan develops, the media here has become increasingly censored, biased and used as a tool for brainwashing. All the TV news channels are like FOX News no matter what side, blue or green, they support. In my spare time, I make short and funny (well, funny is debatable) YouTube clips in broken Taiwanese where I try to point out some of the ridiculous things that politicians and the media say out here.
Why are you proud to be of Taiwanese heritage?
My parents used to tell me that, “you’re not Chinese” when I was growing up, but I never really understood what it meant until I moved back to Taiwan. Taiwan is a vibrant and diverse society vastly different from any other country. Taiwan’s history hasn’t always been the happiest, but as I continue to learn more of our rich and unique history I will always hold my head high when saying that I’m Taiwanese. Our parents and generations before them have struggled to let Taiwan’s voice be heard, a responsibility that now falls on our shoulders.
What does the future of Taiwanese America look like to you?
I hope to see a future where all Taiwanese Americans can be leaders and change agents in each of their respective communities. I envision a future where Taiwanese Americans and Taiwanese youth work closely together in letting the world know that Taiwan is and always will be a free and democratic country.
Any additional information you would like to share?
One of the reasons I may never leave Taiwan is because of the food. I love night market (夜市) food, 意麵, Taiwanese fruits, 路邊攤, the list goes on…
Check out my videos at: http://www.youtube.com/user/ahbying
Great to see you listed here, Ahbying!
I remember you from a news report back in 2008! Glad to know you’re listed here!! Way to go!!!
eric,
cool.
your parents must very proud of you.
liao