An honorable member of the Coffee Shop Has Just Posted the Following:
Yesterday, an individual sent in a forum letter to the Chinese papers urging the government to grant a mandatory Taoist holiday in Singapore. As a Taoist myself, I am ecstatic that someone within the community finally has the guts to speak up. Owing to conventional Taoist teachings where believers strive to take a non-confrontational approach to life, leaders within the Taoist community have in the past been unwilling to push the government vigorously for such a concession.
However, for the younger generation of Taoist followers, we believe that in a Singapore where equality is an important hallmark, this is a right that is long overdue and should be accorded to the Taoist community.
Moreover, if we look at the latest available government census, 10.9% of Singapore's population are Taoist and between the year 2000 - 2010 Taoism has seen a 2.4% growth in followers. In comparison, only 5.1% of Singapore's population are Hindus. Given that Taoism has consistently sustained itself as one of the major religions in Singapore society since Independence, shouldn't we be given a public holiday to celebrate the birthday of the founder of Taoism (Lao Tzu)?
Over the years, whenever there was any Taoist celebration, believers are forced to use their annual leave in order to fulfill their religious obligations. If we look at the other major religions in Singapore, they are given public holidays to celebrate their religions. Sad to say, from our experiences, employers are also least receptive and understanding to the religious needs of a Taoist due to this lack of official recognition by the government.
I strongly urge the government to consider the needs of the Taoist community and make the 15th day of the second lunar month a Taoist public holiday. It is only fair that our community is given a public holiday similar to what is enjoyed by the other major religions in Singapore. Otherwise, are we guilty of reciting an empty pledge daily when the religious needs of Singaporean Taoists are not fulfilled "based on justice and equality"?
It is time the government live up to the promises made to Singaporeans and work towards an inclusive Singapore.
Please show your support for your fellow Singaporean Taoists by signing the petition below.
https://secure.avaaz.org/en/petition...ublic_Holiday/
Click here to view the whole thread at www.sammyboy.com.
20-12-2013, 01:50 PM
Sinkie taoist demands for taoist public holiday?!
