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Last Saturday was Racial Harmony Day and many schools commemorated the event (Practice of racial harmony every day, says President Halimah, July 21.) [19659002] After interactions with my nephews and nieces School Blues Day celebrations are old and do not take into account current social developments.
The program of the day seems to be similar to what it was when I was a student years ago.
costumes and learn about the racial riots of 1964 through shows and videos.
I do not suggest that riot recalls should stop. But they should not take center stage.
Times have changed and society has evolved from these days of violence. We can recognize that society is generally stable and that Singaporeans are mature and rational enough not to put racial problems on the street.
Rather, the focus should be on other relevant issues: stereotypes, compromises, subtle racism
Group discussions, dialogues, and realistic role playing are examples that can lead to challenging, thrilling but necessary questions among students about racial harmony
They should learn that it is a work in progress and not perfect. Yet, this is not something that has already been accomplished.
Today's students desire a more authentic speech on racial issues, instead of superficial celebrations to mark the Day of Racial Harmony. Schools should not ignore them.
On this note, schools should also consider the longstanding activities related to this day, such as wearing ethnic costumes, lest they be perceived as cultural appropriation. A look at Instagram showed that students treated it more as a photo opportunity, rather than an act of true cultural appreciation.
If it was really the prevailing state of mind among the students, then the activity lost its meaning. the responsibility of explaining the purpose of such activities, instead of just going through the motions.
Let's go beyond these superficial activities. Instead, we should bring the children to talk and have strong conversations about the thistopic
This is not easy, but they will grow by gaining a better appreciation of race relations. It is only then that we can really promote racial and religious harmony in Singapore
Sean Lim Wei Xin
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