In June 2024, I embarked on a deeply personal journey to Taipei, Taiwan, to participate in the 35th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre. This event held special significance for me, as a Taiwanese teacher from our symposium had extended an invitation to “Our Story Our History” to be part of the commemoration at Liberty Square. With great anticipation, I prepared to present an AI chatbot modeled after my late grandfather, a fervent advocate for freedom and democracy who had lived through the Cultural Revolution and the Tiananmen Square protests.
The Preparation
Creating the AI chatbot involved digitizing my grandfather’s journals and writings, and gathering stories from family members who had witnessed his courage firsthand. These narratives were used to fine-tune the ChatGPT 4.0 model to accurately reflect his experiences and personality. The goal was to honor his legacy and stimulate meaningful conversations about the life of a revolutionary during such tumultuous times.
The Journey to Taipei
Flying to Taipei, I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. The significance of the event weighed heavily on me, and I was eager to see how my digital tribute would be received. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the city’s vibrant energy, as preparations for the anniversary were in full swing. The streets near Liberty Square were adorned with banners and posters, setting a somber yet hopeful tone for the upcoming events.
The Anniversary Event
Liberty Square was the epicenter of the 35th anniversary commemoration. The event drew people from all over Taiwan and abroad, united in their resolve to remember the victims of the Tiananmen Square massacre and stand against authoritarianism. The event featured various activities, including candlelight vigils, art installations, and performances, each contributing to a powerful collective memory.
Setting up my booth, I felt a deep connection to my grandfather’s spirit. The AI chatbot was ready to engage with visitors, sharing stories and insights from his life. The response was overwhelming. People of all ages interacted with the chatbot, asking questions and listening intently to the stories it recounted. Many were moved to tears, finding parallels between my grandfather’s experiences and their own struggles for freedom.
Meeting Like-Minded Individuals
Throughout the day, I met numerous individuals who shared a profound commitment to democracy and human rights. Among them were former Tiananmen student leaders, activists from Hong Kong, and Taiwanese civil society representatives. Their stories were both heartbreaking and inspiring, highlighting the resilience and determination of those who continue to fight for justice despite immense odds.
One memorable encounter was with Leslie Liao, a sociology student from China, who expressed her astonishment at being able to participate in such a memorial in Taipei, given the strict censorship in her homeland. Her words reinforced the importance of preserving historical memory and continuing the dialogue about the Tiananmen Square massacre.
Speeches and Interactions
The event featured speeches from prominent figures, each adding a layer of depth to the commemoration. Vice President William Lai spoke about the importance of remembering the June 4th incident and the need to cherish the hard-won freedom and democracy in Taiwan. He emphasized that the brutal history of blood repression should not be forgotten and that democracy and freedom are not easily obtained
Aurora Chang, an activist, highlighted the importance of historical memory in achieving justice for victims and holding perpetrators accountable. Her words resonated deeply with many attendees, reinforcing the significance of the event as more than just a commemoration but a call to action.
Broader Impact
The commemoration served as a stark reminder of the contrast between Taiwan’s vibrant democracy and China’s authoritarian regime. It underscored Taiwan’s role as a beacon of freedom in the Chinese-speaking world. The event also highlighted the interconnectedness of various democratic movements across Asia, with booths dedicated to causes from Tibet to Hong Kong
Reflection and Future Hopes
As the day drew to a close, I reflected on the impact of my project and the conversations it sparked. The chatbot not only honored my grandfather’s legacy but also provided a platform for discussing broader issues of freedom and human rights. It was heartening to see so many people engaged in these conversations, each contributing to a collective effort to keep the memory of the Tiananmen Square massacre alive.
The anniversary event was a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of those who fight for democracy. It reminded us all that while the struggle for freedom is ongoing, there is strength in solidarity and hope in remembering the past. As I packed up my booth and prepared to return home, I felt a renewed sense of purpose and a deep gratitude for the opportunity to share my grandfather’s story with the world.
Conclusion
Participating in the 35th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square massacre in Taipei was a transformative experience. It reinforced the importance of historical memory and the need to continue advocating for democracy and human rights. My AI chatbot project was a small but meaningful contribution to this cause, sparking conversations and connecting people across generations and borders. As we move forward, it is crucial to keep these memories alive and to support those who continue to fight for a more just and free world.
By: Y.