RACIAL HARMONY DAY

Racial Harmony Day marked a very significant event in our short history as a country. Many races came together amidst conflict and troubled times and we commemorate this day to remind ourselves of this special privilege that could so easily be lost. Gavin from Sec 2D pointed this out – “We must learn to be in harmony with the other races and learn more about each other. If we don’t do that, we might have another fight due to us having negative stereotypes of each other.”

Nurul Batrisyia of Sec 3G, felt that “Racial Harmony Day is to celebrate the diversity of races in Singapore. To me, it is a time for me to get closer with people who are from a different race from me or have diverse backgrounds and cultures.”

To celebrate the occasion, students were treated to a classroom package, including snacks and tidbits from the various races. Students could also play traditional games during their recess. This surprise was well received by students who, of course, enjoyed eating in their classrooms. Gargi Singh, of Sec 3C, shared that “The kahoot quiz was also interesting as it tested my own knowledge, and I got to see how much I know about the other cultures here. Lastly, during recess, my friends and I played some traditional games like the capteh.”

Next, we headed over to the hall, where we were treated to a musical masterpiece by an external company. They had various instruments from different cultures, and allowed us the chance to hear some of them for the first time. Many of the students were listening eagerly on the edge of their seats. Batrisyia also commented, “I especially liked the performances in the hall. I’ve never experienced a Racial Harmony day where they invite dancers outside of the school to perform.” Gargi echoed this, she said that “During the celebration, I got to see and learn the different types of dances and how each and every one of the dances was different from one another. Watching all the dancers with their energetic and cultural moves, I really found it interesting and meaningful.” 

Some students also saw new instruments! Eugene Tan from Sec 2D shared that “One performance showed us the instruments from different cultures, such as the Northern Indian flute the Bansuri, that gives a mellow sound.”

Fun and games aside, Racial Harmony day was also memorable. Gargi Singh from 3C felt that “Racial Harmony Day is a very important day as we get to learn and see more about other people. Racial Harmony Day is a significant day for Singapore as all the races; Chinese Malays, Indians and others, get together to appreciate each other. Through Racial Harmony Day, we can get to know each other better and make new friends from other races."