Culture

Finding Who We Are: Revitalizing Siraya Cultural Identity through Traditional Clothing  (an Ethnographic Approach)

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Abstract

This study explores the revitalization of the Siraya cultural identity in Taiwan through traditional bridal clothing, employing an ethnographic approach. The Siraya tribe, historically marginalized under colonial regimes, has sought official recognition as an indigenous group since the 1990s. Conducted from February to October 2021, this research focuses on three primary communities—Beitouyang, Jibeishua, and Koupi—examining how they reproduce bridal attire as a strategy for reclaiming their identity in a post-colonial context. The findings reveal a dual motivation: an intrinsic desire for self-affirmation and a response to societal stereotypes regarding indigenous authenticity. By integrating embroidery patterns from a historic bridal piece in Tainan's Bama Museum, the Siraya blend heritage with modernity, using clothing as a powerful symbol of resilience. This work highlights the significance of material culture in advocating for indigenous rights and emphasizes the role of traditional attire in navigating post-colonial landscapes.

Keywords: Indigenous tribe, Asian culture, Ethnic studies, Ethnographic studies, Anthropology

How to Cite:

Kao, Y. (., Ho, Z. & Jai, T. (., (2025) “Finding Who We Are: Revitalizing Siraya Cultural Identity through Traditional Clothing  (an Ethnographic Approach)”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18753