Hate speech can promote discrimination, social unrest

Contrary to the writer’s opinion in “Emotive language in LGBT debate does not mean support for violence” (June 22), emotive language in this context could be inferred as a sugar-coated term for hate speech.

While harmless on its own as a rhetorical form, hate speech could be taken out of context, promote discrimination and incite or create social unrest.

Besides lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) issues, Singaporeans should, in expressing their views, also refrain from supporting hate speech targeted at any race, religion or nationality.

As a diverse, democratic society, it is important to promote inclusiveness instead of division. As a nation, we still have a long way to go to eliminate hate speech and intolerance.

The Bryan Lim incident is only one example of discrimination against a minority. Going forward, Singapore should progress as a nation that prides itself on inclusion, tolerance and social harmony.