In May 1989, the quiet fishing village of Nanfang'ao on the island of Taiwan became the starting point of a historic journey. A flotilla of 20 fishing boats, carrying over 200 people and several effigies of the revered sea goddess Mazu, set sail across the Taiwan Strait. Their destination was Meizhou Island in Fujian Province on the Chinese mainland, the legendary birthplace of Mazu.
At that time, cross-strait travel was not permitted by the Taiwan authorities, making this voyage both daring and unprecedented. The fishermen and devotees were driven by a deep cultural and spiritual connection to Mazu, who is venerated by seafarers and coastal communities. Their mission was to return the effigies to her ancestral home, symbolizing a yearning for unity and shared heritage.
The journey was fraught with uncertainty. Navigating the vast expanse of the Taiwan Strait without official sanction posed significant risks. Yet, the flotilla persisted, guided by faith and a collective hope for reconciliation. Upon reaching Meizhou Island, they were met with curiosity and warmth, marking a subtle thaw in cross-strait relations.
This act of devotion resonated on both sides of the strait. It not only reignited cultural and familial ties but also paved the way for renewed communication between Taiwan and the Chinese mainland. The 1989 voyage stands as a testament to the enduring bonds that connect people beyond political divisions.
The fishermen's courageous journey has since been celebrated as a pivotal event in cross-strait history. It highlights the power of cultural traditions in bridging gaps and fostering understanding. Today, the legacy of that voyage continues to inspire efforts toward peace and cooperation in the region.
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The 1989 voyage that restarted travel across the Taiwan Strait
cgtn.com
