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.
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” or “thin” to avoid offending. Doing so creates the risk of a $500 fine.
Avoid dismissive actions or speech, such as eye-rolling, smirking, or face an imprisonment term. Let us use the phrase “vertically challenged” instead of “short”.
Give up seats on public transport to those who need it, or risk being fined.
Do not look the other way when there are physically challenged individuals on the street, or face fines.
Do not block the paths of the physically challenged, or risk incarceration.
If you are a service personnel, do not sigh when you have to assist a challenged person, or social services will impose a 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.
As we include them, we must also ensure our own presence.
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
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