In anticipation of the Lunar New Year and to strengthen family bonds among incarcerated individuals, Chiayi Prison of the Agency of Corrections, Ministry of Justice, organized a series of Lunar New Year Family Reunion Activities toward the end of the year. Through the warmth and support of family members, the Prison hopes to inspire incarcerated individuals to reflect on their actions and strive toward rehabilitation.

On January 26, the series began with the Lunar New Year Filial Phone Call Activity. With assistance from Chunghwa Telecom’s Chiayi Office, 15 telephone lines were set up, allowing 876 incarcerated individuals to convey their thoughts, gratitude, and New Year wishes to their loved ones by phone.

Subsequently, on January 28 and 29, the Face-to-Face Family Reunion Activities were held in multiple sessions. These events provided a rare opportunity for incarcerated individuals and their families—who usually can only meet through glass partitions—to hold hands, converse in person, and exchange heartfelt blessings.

During the events, performances were presented by inmate-formed groups, including the Xin-Yue Choir and the Little Flathead Band. They performed well-loved and heartwarming songs such as “Contentment” and “The Moon Represents My Heart,” with moving melodies that resonated deeply with both family members and incarcerated participants.

The reunion venue was filled with warmth and emotion. Many incarcerated individuals were visibly moved upon seeing their elderly parents, spouses, and children, with touching scenes of family affection seen throughout the venue. One incarcerated individual, Student Hong (pseudonym), reunited with his mother after a long separation; the two embraced and wept with emotion, deeply touching all present. Another, Student Lin (pseudonym), who serves as the conductor of the Xin-Yue Choir, moved his parents to tears as they witnessed their son’s sincere transformation and dedication to the arts during his incarceration.

Chiayi Prison stated that the Lunar New Year symbolizes reunion and renewal. These heartfelt interactions not only demonstrate the vital support of family ties, but also serve as an important source of strength for incarcerated individuals to engage in self-reflection and pursue positive change. Moving forward, Chiayi Prison will continue to integrate resources from various sectors to promote initiatives that support the positive growth of incarcerated individuals, helping them rediscover direction in life under the influence of family love and work together toward a hopeful New Year.