【Article by International College of Innovation】

A migrant worker should not have to wait for a “Good Taiwanese employer” to show up to be able to enjoy their rights and a better working environment. 

On a rainy spring afternoon, National Chengchi University (NCCU), through its USR project Inclusive Innovation, in collaboration with the Serve the People Association (SPA), hosted a film screening and discussion forum centered on the documentary When the Plane Passes By. Directed by Li I-Ching (李依靜), the film intimately portrays the experiences of three migrant women navigating pregnancy and motherhood while working in Taiwan. The event aimed to spark critical reflection on the challenges faced by migrant mothers and to promote solidarity among students, faculty, and the broader public.

Migrant workers—often described as the unsung heroes of our society—make up a significant portion of Taiwan’s labor force. It is estimated that over 800,000 migrant workers currently reside in Taiwan, many of whom serve in caregiving roles or support essential industries. Despite their contributions, migrant workers frequently face systemic injustices, precarious working conditions, and entrenched social prejudice. As When the Plane Passes By illustrates, these injustices become even more pronounced when migrant workers become mothers.

The documentary follows the emotional journeys of three migrant women who, while working in Taiwan, experience pregnancy and motherhood. Their stories highlight the deep maternal love they carry across borders, but also the emotional toll of separation, fear of job loss, lack of institutional support, and public stigma. Through a tender and honest lens, the film reveals the harsh decisions many are forced to make—such as giving birth in secrecy, sending children home, or being separated from their infants shortly after delivery.

A key message emphasized throughout the event was that a migrant worker should not have to wait for a “good” Taiwanese employer to enjoy basic rights and humane working conditions. Instead, institutional change is needed to ensure dignity and protection for all workers.

Following the screening, Hsiao Yi-Tsai (蕭以采), Director of the Serve the People Association (SPA), and PR Specialist Sally Sung (宋家瑜) introduced their organization and shared insights into SPA’s mission. Founded in 2008, SPA initially focused on supporting local workers involved in labor disputes, but in 2014 expanded its efforts to provide shelter, legal aid, and medical assistance to displaced migrant workers. Over the years, the organization has served more than 1,000 individuals. Among its current initiatives are the WOMEN NO CRY exhibition, which shares the life stories of migrant mothers, and an upcoming shelter (set to open in 2025) specifically for migrant mothers and their infants.

The post-screening forum welcomed questions from the audience, prompting thoughtful discussion about SPA’s operations, the personal motivations of its staff, and the structural challenges facing migrant families in Taiwan. One key issue raised was the systemic conflict of interest between employers and workers. Without sufficient government safety nets—such as paid leave policies or temporary substitute labor—employers may see a worker’s pregnancy as a burden. This reveals a deeper issue: the absence of comprehensive labor protections leaves both parties vulnerable, and places the full weight of caregiving on individual migrant women.

Ultimately, When the Plane Passes By challenges its audience to confront uncomfortable truths about privilege, labor, and motherhood in Taiwan. It reminds us of the silent sacrifices that migrant workers make daily—and the urgent need for structural reforms to protect their rights. Through powerful storytelling and open dialogue, the event succeeded in fostering greater empathy and awareness, encouraging attendees to reflect not only on what has been done, but what still remains to be done.