Racial Harmony Day, observed on 21 July annually, is a significant event in Singapore that promotes racial and ethnic harmony. This day commemorates the 1964 racial riots and serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining peace and understanding among different communities. While schools and grassroots organisations primarily organise activities, companies and workers in Singapore can also play a vital role in celebrating and promoting racial harmony. Here’s how they can get involved.

Understanding the Significance

Racial Harmony Day was first launched in 1997 by the Ministry of Education to educate students about the importance of racial and religious harmony. It marks the anniversary of the 1964 race riots, during which 22 people lost their lives and hundreds were injured. Over the years, the celebration has expanded beyond schools to involve various community organisations, promoting a cohesive and tolerant society.

How Companies Can Participate

1. Organise Cultural Awareness Workshops: Companies can arrange workshops that educate employees about different cultures and traditions in Singapore. Inviting speakers from diverse backgrounds to share their experiences can foster understanding and appreciation among employees.

2. Celebrate with Traditional Attire: Encourage employees to come to work dressed in traditional costumes, such as the Cheongsam, Baju Kurung, or Saree. This can create a festive atmosphere and provide a visual representation of Singapore’s multicultural heritage.

3. Host Multicultural Food Festivals: Organise a food festival featuring traditional dishes from various ethnic communities. This can be an enjoyable way for employees to experience and appreciate the culinary diversity of Singapore.

4. Conduct Team-Building Activities: Plan team-building activities that include traditional games and cultural activities. Games like five stones, zero points, and hopscotch can be both fun and educational, promoting teamwork and cultural appreciation.

5. Promote Dialogue and Discussions: Create platforms for open dialogue where employees can discuss their cultural backgrounds and share their personal stories. This can help build empathy and understanding within the workplace.

6. Support Community Events: Encourage employees to participate in community events organised by grassroots organisations. Companies can sponsor or co-organize events that promote racial harmony, such as the Harmony Games or community cultural nights.

7. Display Educational Materials: Use office spaces to display posters, banners, and educational materials about Racial Harmony Day and the importance of racial and religious harmony. This can serve as a constant reminder of the company’s commitment to these values.

8. Recite the Declaration on Religious Harmony: During company meetings or events, recite the Declaration on Religious Harmony to reaffirm the commitment to mutual tolerance, respect, and understanding among all employees.

How Workers Can Participate

1. Engage in Self-Education: Take the initiative to learn about the history and significance of Racial Harmony Day. Understanding the past can help in appreciating the present efforts to maintain harmony.

2. Participate Actively in Company Events: Join and actively participate in the activities organised by your company. Your involvement can make a difference in fostering a harmonious workplace.

3. Promote Inclusivity: Be an advocate for inclusivity and diversity within your team. Encourage colleagues to respect and celebrate each other’s differences.

4. Volunteer for Community Programs: Get involved in community programs that promote racial harmony. Volunteering can provide opportunities to interact with people from different backgrounds and contribute to societal cohesion.

5. Practice Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of cultural differences and practice sensitivity in your interactions. This can create a more inclusive and respectful work environment.

Conclusion

Racial Harmony Day is an important occasion in Singapore that highlights the nation’s commitment to maintaining peace and understanding among its diverse population. Companies and workers have a crucial role in promoting these values. By organising cultural events, participating in community activities, and fostering an inclusive workplace, they can contribute significantly to the celebration and perpetuation of racial harmony in Singapore. Let’s come together to celebrate our multicultural mosaic and continue building a cohesive and harmonious society.

 

Seeking Your Next Career Opportunity?

Submit your CV — Our trusted Career Consultants will review your resume and contact you if we find a position that matches your profile!

OR

Looking to Hire?

Please fill in this Inquiry Form — our Recruitment Consultants will be in touch with you soon!

 

 

Disclaimer:

The information provided in our blog articles is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. 

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the ever-evolving nature of certain topics may result in content becoming outdated or inaccurate over time. Therefore, we recommend consulting with qualified professionals or experts in the respective fields for specific advice or guidance. Any actions taken based on the information contained in our blog articles are solely at the reader's discretion and risk. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for any loss, damage, or adverse consequences incurred as a result of such actions.

We may occasionally provide links to external websites or resources for further information or reference. These links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement or responsibility for the content or accuracy of these external sources. Our blog articles may also include personal opinions, views, or interpretations of the authors, which do not necessarily reflect the views of our organisation as a whole. We encourage readers to verify the accuracy and relevance of information presented in our blog articles and to seek professional advice when needed. 

Your use of this website and its content constitutes acceptance of this disclaimer.

 

Reference Links:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Racial_Harmony_Day

https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/article-detail?cmsuuid=d584f038-2d67-4a3b-b786-7d2116dbec3b#:~:text=Racial%20Harmony%20Day%20is%20an,multicultural%20and%20multi%2Dethnic%20society.

https://necrg.moe.edu.sg/designing-ne-experiences/ne-commemorative-days/#:~:text=Theme%3A%20Singapore%3A%20Our%20Multicultural%20Mosaic,of%20the%201964%20race%20riots

https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/singapore/racial-harmony-day