The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Central Library held an event on June 9 to better understand the dragon boat festivities and Taiwan’s culture. Through visiting the Wen Sun Farm and the Human Rights Memorial Park.

At the Wen Sun Farm, scholars were able to learn the history of tea making that traces back to when Taiwan was colonized by Japan. The early days of sapling planting and researches of tea development served as a crucial point. Through the tour of the venue, scholars learnt about the ecosystem and used various leaves to create their own leaf-themed bags.

In the afternoon, scholars visited the Human Rights Memorial Park in Jinmei where the venue was located at the old detention center. Current year Taiwan Fellowship Scholar, Professor Maria Julia Moreyra was invited to give a speech at the start of the tour to share her findings related to Taiwan’s Human Rights. During her research period here in Taiwan, her research compares how both Taiwan and Argentina had experienced their own authoritarian ruled history, and of how both countries were able to pursue transitional justice. In addition, she also shared modern social and political definitions of democracy. Through the detailed information provided by the English-speaking tour guides, scholars were able to view the military courts and other historical facilities while learning about it during the dark times. Through this cultural excursion, scholars were able to understand how Taiwan achieved the democracy seen today. A total of 54 participants of both scholars and their family members attending this event.