Adjacent to the National Taiwan Museum is the 228 Peace Memorial Park. It was raining and I could have easily gone back to my hotel, but I wanted to walk through and learn more.
This peaceful space honors the victims of the February 28 Incident of 1947, when protests against government corruption and abuse were met with a violent crackdown.
What struck me most was learning online who many of the victims were. Among those who lost their lives or were later imprisoned were teachers, doctors, lawyers, students, journalists, and other respected community leaders. Their loss was not only a personal tragedy for their families but also a profound loss for Taiwan.
Today, the park serves as a place of remembrance, reflection, and hope. It reminds visitors of the importance of protecting democracy, human rights, and freedom of expression. As an educator, I left with a deeper appreciation for the responsibility we all share to learn from history and ensure these stories are never forgotten.
Shawnette Brown 