Aerius Answers II

To a great extent, I think it is important to celebrate Racial Harmony Day, although it does not really matter.

It is important to celebrate Racial Harmony Day as it is important for us to remember how racial problems could hurt the social fabric of this country & consequently lead to the collapse of the economy as well; we remember the importance of maintaining good ties with other races to bring further progress to this nation.

However, it does not really matter, as Racial Harmony has over the last 40 years, been well “ingrown” into Singapore culture; the government has various policies to encourage racial harmony e.g. the Ethnic Integration Policy for HDB, etc. that I feel it is effective in bringing/integrating different races together. Also, there’s no racial quota for schools such that students of all races can be admitted into any school as it’s based on merit, hence this enables us to integrate with other races throughout our growing up years, irregardless of any Racial Harmony Day.

Teck Ian
07S07

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The day commemorates the 1964 Race Riots but has, over the years, been the day for the celebration and reflection of the harmony among the different races that Singapore has been enjoying thus far. I feel that racial harmony should have already been integrated in all of us and should not only be recalled on 21st July. In fact, racial harmony is being celebrated every day. Therefore, I feel that it does not make a difference whether we celebrate racial harmony. However, it is a great day for Singaporeans to immerse themselves in the cultures of other races and to HAVE FUN! =)

Eunice
07S19
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Racial Harmony Day serves as an emphasis and a reminder to all Singaporeans that Singapore is a multi-racial society. Celebrations of Racial Harmony Day in schools and in the community is important as it helps to breakdown the different cultural barriers between each race and to have better understanding among each other. Only when people of different backgrounds can become tightly knitted together as one, Singapore could continue to prosper towards a peaceful and better tomorrow.

Zhirong
05IP04