From left to right: River Ko, Shu-Hui Chen, Steven Chen, Shu-min Coolidge, Tony Coolidge, Dr. Fu-Mei Chang (Minister), Wendy Kang, and Tong-Hsing Chen.

We met with the Overseas Chinese Affairs Commission, one of the larger government departments in Taiwan. This meeting was by far the most exciting so far. Our expectations were exceeded from the beginning. We were greeted by a staff member, who handed us the formal itinerary of the meeting. I was surprised about how much they prepared for our arrival. When we entered the formal meeting room and were greeted by a television camera crew. They were shooting a news piece about the meeting for the overseas government TV affiliates. After a brief interview, we were greeted by Minister Chang and four staff members.

She had already assembled a task force of people who may be helpful for the ATAYAL mission. We had formal introductions, and then discussed ideas. Dr. Chang seemed sincerely interested and appreciative of our interest in the indigenous culture of Taiwan. When she asked of if we had talked to the Council for Indigenous Peoples, we told her we had difficulties getting in touch with them. She immediately made a phone call and set up an appointment for us for the next day. I was blessed with the opportunity to share so much time with this intelligent woman and enjoyed a candid personal discussion. She was very down-to-earth and spoke English very well. They look forward to our proposal to see how they can assist us.