The recent circulation of the music video “Chiney Don’t Know Who’s We”, created by Vision Clarke and featuring Richard, has brought to the fore pressing concerns about the role of artistic expression within a diverse and often delicate social fabric. The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has issued a strong and measured response, by which it has highlighted the dangers posed by the video’s content and timing, particularly in light of recent unrest that has seen Chinese-owned businesses and individuals being targeted.
The ERC’s deep concern is both understandable and justified; the emergence of the video at this juncture has the potential to aggravate already simmering tensions. While the producer has publicly clarified that the work is intended as artistic expression, and was neither designed to incite violence or discrimination; and, furthermore, that it predates the recent incidents, the damage inflicted by such material often lies not in its intent, but in its impact. The ERC’s insistence that content creators must exercise greater sensitivity and responsibility underlines a fundamental principle: in volatile periods, words and images can inflame situations far beyond the original scope of their creation.
The constitutional right to freedom of expression is vital, and must be protected. Artistic works are an essential part of societal discourse, offering perspectives that challenge, question, and provoke thought. However, the freedom to produce artistic works is not without limits, especially in pluralistic societies, where the consequences of expression can be far-reaching. The ERC’s stance does not diminish the value of artistic freedom, but rather emphasizes that such freedom is best exercised in tandem with a strong sense of social responsibility.
When art intersects with societal unrest or underlying prejudices, the potential to deepen wounds or perpetrate harmful stereotypes increases exponentially. In this case, the specific targeting of the Chinese community — already made vulnerable by recent events — makes circulation of the video especially concerning. The ERC’s call for its immediate withdrawal from all platforms is not an attack on creative expression, but is a proactive step towards safeguarding public harmony and preventing further marginalization of a specific ethnic group.
The Commission’s statement also serves as a broader reminder to public figures, artistes, and influencers. In a Digital Age, wherein content can be rapidly disseminated and consumed by vast audiences, responsibilities that accompany creative and public expressions are weightier than ever. What may seem like an innocuous artistic work can quickly become a flashpoint when interpreted within the context of ongoing social tensions. Hence, heightened awareness and a sense of national responsibility are not only advisable, but essential.
Importantly, the ERC’s response is grounded in its constitutional mandate: to promote understanding and prevent division among all groups within society. This role becomes even more critical during periods of national crisis, when societal cohesion can be easily fractured. The ERC’s proactive engagement demonstrates its commitment to fostering an environment in which all ethnic groups feel protected, respected, and valued.
This episode also highlights a recurring challenge within multicultural societies: balancing the preservation of free expression with the imperative to maintain social peace. It is a delicate equilibrium that requires constant negotiation, especially in times of heightened sensitivity. While it is essential to avoid censorship, which stifles legitimate expression; it is equally necessary to discourage narratives that – intentionally or not – threaten to unravel the social fabric.
Moving forward, the situation calls for renewed commitment across all sectors — creative, political, and civic — to uphold principles of respect, inclusion, and unity. Institutions such as the ERC play a pivotal role in articulating the standards that should guide public discourse, but responsibility for maintaining harmony cannot rest solely on the shoulders of these institutions; it must be embraced collectively by all who contribute to shaping the national narrative.
The ERC’s intervention is both a protective measure and a call to reflection. Artistic freedom is a cherished right, but it must be exercised with an acute awareness of context and consequence. Safeguarding of ethnic harmony, particularly in moments of tension, requires vigilance, empathy, and a shared commitment to the greater good.
