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The Maintenance of Social Harmony

A Notice Regarding Language, Behaviour, and Inclusive Conduct

By Michelle Liew Tsui-LinPublished 10 months ago • 1 min read
AI image generated by the author

Should empathy be mandatory?

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Since you don't seem to use these loudspeakers as they should be used, I will do it for you.Ā 

This is a Public Service Announcement on behalf of the Social Services Ministry, for the fostering of healthy relationships.

A warning against biased, ignorant speech or behaviour:

Do not use derogatory terms like "savant", "disabled", "fat" orĀ "thin" to avoid offending. Doing so creates the risk of a $500 fine.

Avoid dismissive actions or speech, such as eye-rolling, smirking,Ā  or face anĀ imprisonment term. Let us use the phrase "vertically challenged" instead of "short".

Give up seats on public transport to those who need it, or riskĀ being fined.Ā 

Do not look the other way when there are physically challengedĀ individuals on the street, or face fines.Ā 

Do not block the paths of the physically challenged, or riskĀ incarceration.Ā 

If you are a service personnel, do not sigh when you have to assistĀ a challenged person, or social services will impose aĀ monetary penalty.

These regulations are necessary to maintain social order and harmony. We must cater to the diversity of society. We have a responsibility for our challenged members. We must ensure inclusivity. We must ensure their acceptance into the mainstream.Ā 

As we include them, we must also ensure our own presence.Ā 

If you observe individuals breaking the rules listed, do not hesitate to contact social services at 66775443.

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Original Public Announcement Poem by Michelle Liew Tsui-Lin

For Vocal's Public Announcement Challenge

inspirationalfact or fiction

About the Creator

Michelle Liew Tsui-Lin

Hi, i am an English Language teacher cum freelance writer with a taste for pets, prose and poetry. When I'm not writing my heart out, I'm playing with my three dogs, Zorra, Cloudy and Snowball.

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    Written by Michelle Liew Tsui-Lin