Myths IV 2 of 4 : Reflections on Multiculturalism in Singapore - Lai Ah Eng

Maze and Minefield: Reflections on Multiculturalism in Singapore Lai Ah Eng National University of Singapore Much has be discussed and debated about multiculturalism as one of Singapore’s founding myths. This presentation does not reject it as a myth in the sense of it being untrue or purely a state ideology, but rather as a constant and complex reality of Singapore life that is at once like a maze and a minefield. The presentation necessarily begins with some brief reflections on the notions of race, ethnicity and culture intrinsically associated with multiculturalism. It then focuses on the multifaceted “maze and minefield“ landscape, particularly on four core areas: cultural diversity; the sharing common spaces; racism, structural inequalities; and immigration, integration and citizenship. It then asks what cohesive multiculturalism means amidst growing differences, disconnects and divides. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This took place as part of the seminar on Multiculturalism. The other two lectures were: 1. Myths of Race and Place in the Fragments of old Singapore City Dr Imran bin Tajudeen National University of Singapore 2. Cosmopolitanism: Aspirations, Risks or an Everyday Disposition? Elaine Ho, National University of Singapore #!session-4/c1m6u Friday 24 October 2014, 7-10 pm Venue: Space 3, TheatreWorks 72-13, Mohamed Sultan Road, Singapore 239007