Exposition+Lesson+1+Text+2

__informative texts(edwin) Article: Clubbers should not face prejudice__ // Taken from the Straits Times // //By Amanda Tan//

Youth are noted for sifting out of our company those we deem “awkward” and “trying too hard”-call us a clique-y bunch.

Clubbing, especially, brings out the worst in us.

The type of crowd at these nightlife spots tells all: There is the group determined to out-party everyone with an over-display of energy. Another that there wears so much bling it is blinding. The guys with jeans pulled low, the girls with over-done eye make-up.

We are all out to see and be seen.

A recent incident at popular nightspot The Butter Factory in which a 28-year-old amputee was turned away makes you realise how ugly things can get.

His being on crutches meant he just did not fit the “hip” bill.

Although the club cited safety reasons for refusing him entry, the subtext was obvious: A guy with a handicap would tarnish the club’s exclusive image.

Similarly, two years ago, a woman was denied free drinks on ladies’ night at St James Powerhouse because she was 55 and did not fit the club’s “young and trendy” image-no matter that she was dolled up in black lace and tight jeans.

As a young clubber, I do not think seeing her-or a disabled person-would have diminished my merriment at all.

Rather, it might have even been a welcome, heartwarming experience to see them amid a sea of cooler-than-thou poseurs.

After all, both the amputee, who wanted to be known only as David, and Madam Violet Lim who has since died from cancer were just trying to enjoy a night out despite personal struggles.

They felt fit to party-and as the best judges of their limitations, they should not to have to let someone else write the rules or how they can spend their evening.

Judge this one today by his limbs, that one another day by her age, and pretty soon, you would have run out of people to exclude.

After all, nobody is perfect and we will be better as a society for being gracious and accepting of each other.

Rather than succumb to the somewhat childish-and churlish-practice of exclusion, maybe it is time we grew up, and exercised empathy and inclusion instead.

Instead of drawing lines between the hip and “hip-nots”, it would not hurt club owners to assume a more empathic role.

The club cited “safety concerns” when they kept David out-not only for his sake, but also because they felt that his crutches could be used as weapons.

I have never the heard a more ridiculous reason.

Of course crutches can be used as weapons. So can helmets, chains, belts, glasses-even hair accessories.

What next? Penalise someone wearing stilettos because they could accidentally impale other dancers? Ban large belt buckles?

Let no one keep the willing from their right to party. Grow up. Everyone just wants to have fun.