In December 2002 the Kavalan people were officially recognized as an indigenous group by the government of Taiwan. The Kavalan became the 11th indigenous group to receive such recognition in Taiwan. Around 1,700 individuals have initially registered as official Kavalan members, but it’s estimated that more than 10,000 Kavalan descendents live in the east coast region.
The declaration marks a breakthrough moment for the Kavalan and an important step forward for the general assertion of indigenous rights in Taiwan. The government has respected the Kavalans’ wishes and recognized them as full and legitimate members of Taiwan’s Austronesian aboriginal family.
The decision follows a long and concerted struggle on the part of many Kavalan elders and indigenous rights activists. Throughout their recent history the Kavalan population declined sharply, as they were forced to relocate to different areas in Taiwan. But they persevered in preserving their culture, language, and traditions.
Taiwan’s Premier Yu Shyi-kun apologized on behalf of the government and people of Taiwan for the years of injustice and hardship experienced by the Kavalan: “Today we are affirming the aboriginal culture and identity of Kavalan people. The government is returning the indigenous status that had rightfully belonged to you. We are restoring the historic justice and rights to the Kavalan community … In the future, Kavalan’s unique language, cultural heritage, and traditional belief system will be preserved and passed on to future generations.”
The Kavalan people are one of the lowland aboriginal (Ping-Pu) groups of Taiwan. Other Ping-Pu indigenous groups on the island are the Babuza, Hoanya, Kakabu, Kau-Kaut, Ketagalan, Makatao, Papora, Pazeh, Siraya, Taokas and Tavolong. Historical records suggest that the Ping-Pu groups were among the first indigenous groups of Taiwan to come into contact with the Han people. Many of these groups are in the midst of their own struggles for official recognition.
The government’s official recognition offers an opportunity for a fresh beginning, not just for the Kavalan but for all of the people of Taiwan. The Kavalan celebrated the hard-won milestone with the strains of traditional music and prayers performed by Kavalan elders. And the Premier’s remarks indicate the promise of a new era in positive relations between Taiwanese government and the indigenous communities of the country. The Kavalan hope that the declaration signifies the close of a chapter of history marked by violence, suffering and repressive policies, and the opening of an active partnership with the government in the ongoing effort to save and promote the Kavalan culture and language.
