Resolution by Texas State House of Representatives
Through the efforts of a group of WUFIers and TAA-Dallas members,
on March 5, 1997 Texas State House of Representatives passed a
resolution by the Honorable Jerry Madden to recognize February 28 as
Taiwan Peace Day. A group of TAA-Austin members were there to witness the
passage of the resolution and to accept the proclamation presented
by Mr. Madden. The complete text is copied below.
RESOLUTION
H.R. No 221
By
Honorable Madden, Jerry
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WHEREAS, Februray 28, 1997, has been designated Taiwan
Peace Day, and this noteworthy occasion is truly worthy
of special recognition at this time; and
WHEREAS, On February 28, 1947, a crowd of 2,000 people
assembled in Taipei to protest the beating death of a
cigarette vendor at the hands of police agents; during
the demonstration, machine-gun fire from a government
building swept the crowd, killing at least four people,
and the resulting popular uprising against the military
government was the genesis of the democratic form of
government that Taiwan enjoys today; and
WHEREAS, Since that time Taiwan has grown and flourished
both politically and economically, and the country is now
a crucial element in the stability and prosperity of the
Asia Pacific region; and
WHEREAS, Taiwan's commitment to democracy was aptly
reflected when, in March 1996, the country's first
presidential election by direct popular vote took place;
a capitalist success story, Taiwan has assumed a preeminent
role in global commerce and is now Texas's sixth-largest
trading partner; and
WHEREAS, In recognition of the tragic events of February
28, 1947, and the democratic movement that sprang from them,
the day's 50th anniversary has been declared Taiwan Peace
Day, and while this commemoration honors those who gave
their lives in the struggle against oppression, it is also
a day of reconciliation for the people of Taiwan; although
it is painful to recall the injustices of the past, doing
so is our best defence against their being repeated, and
it is in this spirit that we mark this solemn occasion;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the house of Representatives of the 75th
texas Legislature hereby recognize February 28, 1997, as
Taiwan Peace Day and honor those around the world who have
sacrificed themselves to the cause of human freedom.
The February 28 Holocaust