Rewindddd---
Sunday, November 27, 2005
This week was a mark different from the rest as we were exposed to stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination and racism in a more interactive way, role-playing. Through the many different skit put through by mates who holds interest in issues regarding different social dispute such as ethnic repulsion, rejection of ex-convicts etc, we came to realize that prejudice, stereotyping, discrimination and racism exist despite much denials. It is an undeniable force within each and every society, so prevalent it can be found within almost every aspect of one’s life. It is not difficult to understand as to why it happens as these one-dimensional portrayal of people allow us to some degree, make sense of the world.
The impact of these is way beyond what many could comprehend, the worse of which sees people discarding their cultural and parental values in hope of blending themselves into the world of the majority. This is a problem that should be address universally in hope of preserving the distinctive qualities blessed upon us.
Hence, to eradicate the pervasive power of such threats, we must first develop an appreciation fro the complexities of the universal. Valuing the diversity in human appearance and in nature is important. Once we grasp the uniqueness in each and every individual, we will learn to love them for who they are and not who we want them to be.
Posted by ching at 1:43 PM
The 3 Pronged Threats
Sunday, November 20, 2005
We have been, for the past few weeks, relentlessly discussing on this topic regarding DISCRIMINATION, PREJUDICE and STEREOTYPING. Many would have questioned the severity of this problem, especially in Singapore. It would not be far-fetched say that we Singaporeans are a shallow lot as we have always take things for granted. Though the majority of us do not harbor any ill-feelings towards other ethnic community in this little metropolitan island state, but if we only have love for our own race, then we only leave space to discriminate!
Look at Paris. They experience the same peacefulness as we do. All it takes is just a spark to get things going. Nights after nights of rioting and arson due to hatred that has been generated by discrimination. Who would have expected this to happen to a civilized and developed city? This attack can only serve as a wake up call to the world of the grave and momentous effect of "the 3 pronged threats."
We can choose to ignore these tell tale signs, but are we prepared to deal with these problems when the need arises? Even if we are, are we consequently capable of eliminating it? As a multiracial society, we are exceptionally susceptible to such problems. Thus, there is an urgent need for us to address problems concerning these 3 threats as it can potentially pound us. And for us to achieve that, we must first learn to love and respect each other, not by ethnic background but for the fact that everyone’s gods’ children.
Posted by ching at 1:15 PM
stereoracified
Sunday, November 13, 2005
This week was spent observing racism and how stereotyping sets in our daily life. Stereotyping has no doubt become part and parcel of one's life. We find comfort in classifying people into different groups, often due to inferiority complex. We aim and work towards the cream of the crop, and along the way NEGLECT AND STAY AWAY from those whom we subconsciously regard as the lower class people.
However, stereotyping may not be all bad in this society. Take for example the issue regarding this anguish music teacher who has often been mistaken as illegal immigrants by the police due to his shabby dressing and appearance. Personally, I feel that the police should NOT COMPROMISE in any sense regarding illegal immigrants as they pose great threats to national security, especially in this time where terrorism is rife. Therefore, to avoid this, the music teacher himself should adopt a more PRO-ACTIVE STANCE PERSONALLY to either look more presentable or displaying his identification card in a more prominent manner.
No question is a stupid question and words left unsaid are just as good as lies. How true this can be when we are in a world whereby we often assume on things we have no idea on. Many conflicts, disagreements and even wars are caused by ASSUMPTION, IGNORANCE and MISINTERPRETATION. Though they say humans learn from their mistake, but why can’t we learn to be smart and make it right the first time?
Through this week’s session, I have learnt to adopt a more pro-active stance when dealing with people and issues in life. Never be afraid to ask and voice out your thoughts, even if it is going to trigger gigs and gags from your friends.
For that to happen, widening one’s social circle is important. Be ready to accept people from all walks of life. Be sincere, truthful about the friendship and I believe they would gladly return the favor with respect.
Posted by ching at 1:03 PM
