An Introduction to Taiwan’s Indigenous People and the Atayal (Tayan) Tribe

The Global Taiwan Institute is pleased to present An Introduction to Taiwan’s Indigenous People and the Atayal (Tayan) Tribe in our ongoing series of social and cultural programs in Washington, DC. These series are partly sponsored by Spotlight Taiwan, a project of Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture.

 

Doors open at 5:30 PM and the film will begin at 6. Light snacks will be provided. Please contact GTI Program Assistant Jonathan Lin if you have questions or concerns. Kindly RSVP by May 21.

 

Taiwan’s indigenous people have long been forgotten by the world as they suffered many different periods of colonization. About 2% of Taiwan’s population, Taiwan’s indigenous people trace their origins to the Austronesian peoples according to the “Out of Taiwan” hypothesis first posed by linguist Robert Blust. There are currently 16 officially recognized indigenous ethnic groups in Taiwan, and the Atayal (Tayan) tribe is the third largest group with a population of almost 90,000. The Atayal (Tayan) tribe is mostly known for their facial tattoos, an old practice that is believed to bring the people of the tribe together after they passed away. Their tribesmen are known for their hunting skills, while the tribeswomen are known for their weaving abilities. Music also serves as a distinctive part of their culture, and the “Lubuw” or Jew’s Harp, is an important instrument that is used to communicate and express affection among lovers.