Taiwan legislator joins Amis tribe's harvest festival as daughter-in-law

Legislator Su Chiao-hui has returned to her husband's Amis tribe in Taitung, embracing her role as a daughter-in-law during the annual harvest festival. Su stated that in the tribal setting, her political title as a legislator vanishes, and she is simply a family member, dedicated to participating in the ceremonies and traditional practices.

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This time I specifically came back to be a Kadafo (son-in-law or daughter-in-law), practice dancing, and help with the rituals.

"This time I specifically came back to be a Kadafo (son-in-law or daughter-in-law), practice dancing, and help with the rituals," Su explained. She noted that the annual harvest festival is a crucial time for the community, and as a daughter-in-law, it is her duty to be present. She humorously added that her family understands and allows her to handle tasks she is best at, such as washing dishes.

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In the tribal setting, her political title as a legislator vanishes, and she is simply a family member, dedicated to participating in the ceremonies and traditional practices.

In the Amis matrilineal society, women hold significant status and responsibilities. Traditionally, men would marry into the woman's family. Su mentioned that she has been learning and improving her participation over the years, assisting with cooking and dancing with the women. "I've improved somewhat, and it's visible," she said.

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I've improved somewhat, and it's visible.

Fellow legislator and Taitung County nominee Chen Ying, also an Amis, accompanied Su. Chen Ying remarked that she always visits during the festivals and that Su actively participates in all the necessary rituals. "Today, I am bringing a daughter-in-law back to Taitung," Chen Ying stated, expressing confidence in Su's deep roots and efforts in Taitung. She also voiced her hope for another indigenous, and specifically female, county magistrate to emerge.

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Today, I am bringing a daughter-in-law back to Taitung.