A Cultural Journey: Discovering Dayang's Red Footprints

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Dayang Elementary School, located on Aofeng Mountain in Qingshui District, Taichung City, is a rural school situated in the northernmost part of the Dadushan Plateau. The region is characterized by red soil, which is rich in iron and aluminum due to long-term oxidation. Although the soil has poor drainage, making agriculture challenging, the community perseveres, viewing the red soil as a treasure that sustains the cultivation of sweet potatoes, radishes, and sesame. The area’s history is marked by the collective displacement of residents when the U.S. and Taiwan expanded the Qionglong Air Force Base in the 1950s, leading to much suffering and resilience as they rebuilt their lives elsewhere.

In an effort to learn more about their hometown, fifth-grade students at Dayang Elementary School rewrote the school history illustrated book, "The Primary School on the Top of the Mountain." They entered the Taichung City Creative Drama Competition, aiming to deepen their understanding of their community and raise awareness of the unique Red Foot culture of Dayang. The project involved researching local history and creating a story titled "Hometown of the Red Footprints," culminating in a dramatic performance that invited community members and parents to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the area during the school’s Christmas celebrations.

Currently, the students have gained representation for Taichung City and are set to participate in the National Creative Drama Competition in Hualien9. Due to insufficient travel funds, they creatively developed fabric bags for fundraising, engaging with the community to promote and raise awareness about the significance of the Red Foot culture. Through their efforts, they aim to unite the community and gain recognition for their unique cultural heritage, showcasing their dedication to preserving and celebrating their hometown's history.