In a move stirring debate, Taiwan's DPP authorities revised the island's demographic data by listing 2.6% indigenous, 1.2% immigrants, and a whopping 96.2% as "others." This update effectively rebrands the long-recognized Han ethnic group, a community that’s been a significant part of the island’s history for centuries.
Critics argue that this change isn’t just a numerical tweak—it may signal a deliberate attempt to weaken historical cultural ties with the Chinese mainland. Chi Chia-lin from a Taiwan history research association slammed the decision as a "blatant distortion of objective data," while lawmaker Chen Ching-hui from the Kuomintang accused the DPP authorities of waging a "cognitive warfare" campaign.
Social media has buzzed with reactions, with one user sarcastically remarking, "We are the others now, and soon we will be the spares," blending humor and outrage in a true pop culture moment 😮.
The controversy deepens as the DPP authorities also removed mentions of the Minnan people—descendants of migrants from south Fujian—raising further questions about the island's cultural narrative. This reclassification is seen by many as part of broader initiatives aimed at reshaping Taiwan's historical identity.
As discussions heat up, residents and cultural observers alike are left wondering what these changes mean for Taiwan's rich heritage. The debate continues, challenging us all to reflect on how identity and history are defined in official records.
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Taiwan's DPP faces criticism for rebranding local ethnic Han people
cgtn.com
