Taiwanese American Citizens League (TACL) is extremely disappointed in any American business that impugns the Taiwanese identity by referring to or listing Taiwan as being a part (or a province) of the People’s Republic of China on websites, applications, services, collateral, platforms, etc. that serve people of Taiwanese heritage or ancestry.

Taiwan is an island nation that has been self-governing since the 1950s. Taiwan has held its own multi-party democratic elections, passed its own legislation, created its own currency and economy, established its own armed services, forged its own international diplomatic relations, allows freedom of speech, etc… the list goes on. Most importantly, Taiwan has proudly developed its own unique culture and identity DISTINCT from that of China, which is effectively erased when Taiwan is listed as a part of China.

TACL believes that the people of Taiwan have the right to self-determination. If the people of Taiwan choose to become a province of China, it must be by a peaceful, democratic process and not through military force or coercion. Thus far, Taiwan has chosen to maintain its sovereignty and identity distinct from China by continuing to hold their own elections.

The 2010 U.S. Census counted around 250,000 Taiwanese Americans living in the U.S., but it is now estimated that there are at least 1 million Taiwanese Americans who live in the U.S., contributing to the economy, paying taxes, and buying goods and services.

TACL encourages American businesses to not capitulate to fear or threats from a foreign power, but instead stand firm in their support for their many customers, clients, partners, friends, and family of Taiwanese heritage. TACL strongly urges American businesses to NOT participate in the erasure of the Taiwanese identity and to rectify their reference of Taiwan as part of China on their platforms that serve people of Taiwanese heritage.

TACL also encourages those who use services from the below businesses to contact their respective Customer Relations departments and voice their opposition to the listing of Taiwan as part of China:

JPMorgan Chase and Co.
T-Mobile USA, Inc.
InterContinental Hotels Group
Marriott International, Inc.
Tapestry (Corporate parent of luxury brands such as Coach, Kate Spade, and Stuart Weitzman)