Danish City Requires Public Institutions to Serve Pork

March 25, 2016

Unlocking Word Meanings
 今日の単語・フレーズ

Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article. 

1. immigration / ˌɪm ɪˈgreɪ ʃən / (n.) – the act of moving to another country
Example:  The immigration of Syrian refugees to European countries increased because of the war.

2. taboo / təˈbu / (adj.) – forbidden
Example: It is taboo in the Islamic faith to eat pork. 

3. subsequent / ˈsʌb sɪ kwənt / (adj.) – following in order of sequence
Example: The subsequent book in the series sold less than the first book.

4. criticism / ˈkrɪt əˌsɪz əm / (n.) – the act of showing dislike or disapproval
Example: The government postponed the controversial event after it faced criticism from several groups. 

5. valuables / ˈvæljəbəlz / (n.) – personal items
Example: Don’t leave your valuables unattended.

Article
 ニュース記事

Read the text below.
The city council of Randers, [RAH-nuh rs] Denmark now requires all public institutions in the city to serve pork.

The decision was made to guarantee pork's significance and central place in Danish cuisine. It was brought about by a narrowly successful proposal to include pork in menus by the Danish People's Party (DPP), a recognized anti-immigration and right-wing political organization. However, the city council insists that the requirement is not an attack on Muslims, who consider pork taboo and many of whom have been migrating as refugees to Denmark. A council member also made it clear that even with the requirement of pork, other food such as halal meat, vegetarian meals, and special meals for diabetics would remain available.

Reaction to the decision is divided. Among those against it is Danish author Manu Sareen, who said that the decision was controversial since it forces a set of beliefs on someone. Another critic took to social media and pointed out that the requirement should not be implemented in schools since it might force children to eat pork. In defense of its proposal and the subsequent decision, the DPP claims that refugees who plan to come to Randers, in particular Muslims, should also not expect to force their eating habits on others, and should acknowledge that pork is just as significant as other food.

In line with the criticisms it faced over the new policy, the Danish government was also criticized for tightening its immigration policy. Under the new policy, refugees are forced to surrender valuables to help pay for housing and food costs. State-supported villages in the   countryside will also be built to transfer refugees out of cities.

Viewpoint Discussion
 ディスカッションテーマ

Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.  

Discussion A

·         What is the most popular traditional food in your country? Describe it.
·         What are some behaviors or actions that are not acceptable when dining in your country?

Discussion B
·         Do you think that countries should make exceptions in their laws for refugees they take in? Why or why not?
·         Do you think people who move to another country should abandon their own customs? Why or why not?

March 25, 2016