Taiwanese Americans gathered in Washington, DC, for a major Taiwan advocacy event, emphasizing the island’s strategic importance to U.S. security. The Formosan Association for Public Affairs (FAPA) hosted its largest National Advocacy Conference, drawing 112 participants from across the country. During the three-day event, attendees learned lobbying strategies and practiced congressional meetings, advancing Taiwan advocacy effectively.
The event began on Saturday with hands-on training sessions and policy workshops. Moreover, FAPA President Kao Su-mei stressed the need to convey Taiwan’s significance to American lawmakers. She noted that advocates must compete with larger lobbying groups while keeping Taiwan advocacy visible in Congress.
FAPA Executive Director Hsiao Chiao-yun guided participants in drafting impactful letters and researching lawmakers’ backgrounds. Additionally, policy researcher Tsai Tsung-han emphasized connecting through personal stories instead of relying solely on policy arguments. Hsiao shared her experience with an Oregon legislator, recalling a 2012 incident when China pressured the removal of a mural critical of Beijing. Consequently, the story created empathy and reinforced Taiwan’s democratic values.
Among the participants was Chen I-cheng, the first representative from Alaska. Furthermore, Chen highlighted Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan as strong supporters of Taiwan. After an eight-hour flight, Chen explained that his motivation centered on Taiwan’s right to self-determination and his commitment to Taiwan advocacy.
Founded in Los Angeles in 1982, FAPA has expanded to more than 40 chapters with 2,700 members. In addition, the organization combines grassroots advocacy with Washington-based staff efforts to ensure Taiwan remains a bipartisan priority in Congress. Conference sessions emphasized persistence, relationship-building, and long-term engagement, strengthening Taiwan advocacy at all levels.
Experts note that such conferences help maintain U.S. focus on Taiwan amid regional tensions. Moreover, training citizens to communicate effectively with lawmakers reinforces the island’s strategic position. Participants leave equipped to turn personal narratives into compelling arguments for policy support.
Looking ahead, FAPA plans to expand outreach programs and continue training new advocates. Therefore, these efforts aim to deepen congressional understanding of Taiwan’s role in regional security. With growing participation and strategic guidance, Taiwan advocacy appears set to maintain momentum in Washington.
