Lecture Series: Austronesian Identity, an International Opportunity for Taiwan

Tony Coolidge in front of the event poster.

On Tuesday, October 22, 2019, Tony Coolidge was invited to give a lecture on "Austronesian Identity, an International Opportunity for Taiwan" to students and staff at National Changhua University of Education. It is an ongoing lecture series that Mr. Coolidge provides to universities and civic groups around Taiwan. Often, he is asked to introduce Taiwanese indigenous culture to foreign students in Taiwan, but for Taiwanese students and academicians, he provides a lecture about international opportunities for Taiwanese, through their various cultures.

Ethan Lee and Tony Coolidge

 The event was made possible by Ethan Lee, staff member of the International Studies Department of the University. He invited Mr. Coolidge and organized the event.

Ethan Lee greets the attendees of the lecture.

Attendees of the lecture consisted mostly of students and faculty.

Before the event, Mr. Lee prepared the students and faculty by asking them to watch Voices In The Clouds in order to get a good background of Tony Coolidge and his work.

There was a colorful and energetic opening ceremony. The indigenous students at the University performed several dances, wearing indigenous regalia from their tribes.

Tony Coolidge invited a special guest to the lecture to share indigenous culture. An artist from the Bunun Tribe named Eval Malinjinnan, currently living in Australia, shared about her new exhibit of paintings, to the delight of the audience.

During lecture by Tony Coolidge, he shared information and insights into the international opportunities that have developed around Taiwan's Austronesian culture, and shared yet untapped opportunities. He also held a Question and Answer session.