So my Taiwanese classmate starts telling me about her research field:

[Dallas Durgan]

Wow, this story begins a few days back.

• During the break between classes, a Taiwanese classmate came up to me and started talking. We discussed our graduation papers with each other.
• She told me she was researching how Taiwan is tackling sexual harassment issues. Listening to her talk about Taiwan's efforts over the past decade-and-a-half, I sensed an air of humility in her words as if saying "we're still not doing enough."
• However, I told her, "You guys are actually amazing! I've seen so much already!"

Seriously, my solo trip to Taiwan in February was a profound experience:

• Increased Travel Security!

  • On a Kaohsiung bus, I even found a "Help铃Button" (Emergency Assistance Bell) for dealing with harassment!
  • Even in girls' faves stores like Poya (pharmaceutical store chain in Taiwan), there were warnings on its windows promoting sexual harassment prevention.
  • In the guesthouses, harassment complaint procedures were clearly specified by the elevator, where to report when something bad happens.

• Maxed Out Social Inclusiveness!

  • At Tainan’s Jurisdiction Museum (a place that introduces legal systems and history), I checked out concepts of “Equal Rights” and “Marriage Freedom” under Taiwanese law.
  • Talking to the museum sales staff, we exchanged thoughts on Wild Lily student movement (a landmark movement which pushed through democratization of Taiwan).
  • The hostel also had a “LGBT Friendly” sign displayed at the reception.

• Humanitarian Concerns Available Everywhere!

  • In Taipei, I passed by 明启小学 (school for visually impaired children) and 聪启小学 (school for hearing impaired children) multiple times.
  • Random volunteers engaged with me on the street about helping teenagers with emotional issues.
  • A “Women’s Bookstore” also caught my eye - I perused books alongside numerous girls. When headed downstairs, I saw Azalea flowers of Taipei University blooming, but I couldn’t stop myself wondering about those nice activities announced earlier in the bookstore.

I didn't tell my Taiwanese classmate these experiences in detail, only mentioning how these 8-9 day journey brought me so many unique treasures and made lasting impressions on me.

• Upon hearing my praise, the classmate smiled shyly, shrugged and said, "It has been two decades, some progress is expected."

So you see, no matter what human beings are different from one another, under joint efforts, all can be treated fairly, living freely and happily welcoming every new day. #Diary #KindnessinDailyLife #AmazingThingsAroundUs #Taiwan

[Theodore Wiza]

There are measures against sexual harassment in the men's restrooms too.

[Anita Wiza]

Absolutely fantastic!!!

[Courtney Hickle Jr.]

This is so good. No matter how things are, it gives a feeling of hope.

[Mr. Nathan Waelchi]

Equality issues inherently fall into a category where excessive control stifles progress, while too little leads to chaos. It's fair to say this is an ongoing journey. Maintaining restraint in public power and avoiding overcorrection are just as important as rectifying existing injustices.

[Franklin Weimann IV]

When will mainland China take a cue from this?

[Ethel Morissette]

This is really good.