As a Singaporean, Racial Harmony Day holds a special place in my heart, as it represents the essence of unity, understanding, and appreciation among people of diverse ethnic backgrounds in Singapore. Since music is a universal language, I asked Singlifers to name one song that inspires diversity and togetherness, and received a whole bunch of responses, which I decided to put into a Top 10 Racial Harmony Day Spotify playlist.
What is Racial Harmony Day?
Racial Harmony Day is celebrated in Singapore on 21 July every year. It reminds us of the importance of racial and religious harmony in our multicultural society. Initiatives at school campuses, workplaces and within communities on this day bring people together to learn about different cultures, engage in activities promoting racial understanding, and showcase the beauty of Singapore's diverse heritage.
Thinking back to my earliest memories of Racial Harmony Day in primary school unleashes a wave of nostalgia. There would be a lively atmosphere at school, with students and teachers dressed in different traditional costumes, cultural performances, and the aromas of diverse cuisines that were specially prepared to commemorate this day. These early experiences sparked my curiosity, fostered a deep appreciation for the richness of different cultures and laid the foundation for embracing diversity in my life.
Racial harmony is still a work in progress
Beyond all the fun and excitement of trying out different ethnic costumes and food, it is important to remember that having an annual occasion like Racial Harmony Day is not a representation of a perfect nation – we still do hear stories about racism occasionally. However, Racial Harmony Day is a powerful reminder of the ongoing effort needed to nurture understanding among different races, emphasising the value of diversity and how it can truly strengthen our community.
The nation's commitment to fostering unity among diverse communities has made me more mindful of the differences between people wherever I am, particularly when I'm overseas, where the need for respect and appreciation of different cultures and practices becomes more apparent.
While Singapore is the only country that dedicates a special day for this celebration, I believe we should not confine racial harmony to a single day alone. We should be mindful about how we treat individuals from different backgrounds every day and everyone has a part to play when it comes to promoting national harmony.
Immersing myself in a diverse culture
During my internship at Singlife, I had the privilege of witnessing the incredible diversity within the company. It was eye-opening to observe how, despite coming from various backgrounds and ethnicities, everyone collaborated harmoniously and supported one another. Aside from Singapore’s main ethnic groups, I saw how people originally from Malaysia, Indonesia, India, China, the Philippines, Spain, the US and many other places chatting, sharing meals during and outside work hours, and genuinely enjoying each other's company. Not to mention the pantry that is always stocked with a variety of snacks from overseas – including foodstuff and teas shared by colleagues who had returned from visiting their home country. Food never fails to spark conversations about culture among colleagues.
Music, a universal language
But guess what? There's something other than food that unites us all effortlessly – music. Music speaks a universal language that resonates deep within us, creating connections that go beyond cultural differences.
What are some songs that inspire diversity and togetherness? I was tasked to ask Singlifers this, and received interesting responses which I’ve put together as a list of top 10 Racial Harmony Day tracks. Get set to groove to these tunes that celebrate unity in diversity and embrace the spirit of Racial Harmony Day!
True Colors by Cyndi Lauper
“'It tells us to ‘not be afraid’ of showing our true selves. Regardless of race, colour or creed, our ‘true colours are beautiful... like a rainbow’.”
– Jonathan Albano
We’re All in This Together by High School Musical cast
“‘Cause we’re all in this together.”
– Keith Pak
Colors of the Wind by Judy Khun
“It emphasises the value of mutual respect and advocates for treating each other equally.”
– Shu Shuang Tay
Heal the World by Michael Jackson
“The lyrics evoke the need to resist complacency and to never resign yourself to racial injustice as the status quo. Make the world a better place.”
– Effendy Razak
Where is the Love? by Black Eyed Peas
“It reminds us that wars and conflict in the world are seeded when you and I forget that we're all equally flawed, and that we need to love one another despite our shortcomings.”
– Samuel Lim
I’ll Take Care of You by Joe Bonamassa and Beth Hart
“The lyrics convey empathy, reassurance, and a willingness to support and care for someone who may be going through hardship.”
– Ghassen Chniti
Imagine by John Lennon
“This thought-provoking composition calls for a world without divisions and barriers, where humanity comes together as one.”
– Zhi Yi Koh
We Are by One Ok Rock
“It gives me a strong feeling of togetherness which I think is the bigger concept that Racial Harmony Day symbolises.”
– Natasha Boon
Black or White by Michael Jackson
“It promotes unity and inclusivity, emphasising the importance of treating everyone with fairness and respect, regardless of our differences.”
– Wei Ming Tan
Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson
“This song encourages us to take a look at ourselves and try to better ourselves and the way we treat others before attempting to change those around us.”
– Shyamal Sankar
Check out our Racial Harmony Day Spotify playlist here! Want more inspiring music? Read all about our playlist to celebrate women’s empowerment.
