I begin with a quote from Manifesta: Young Women, Feminism, and the Future by Jennifer Baumgardner and Amy Richards (Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 2000).

Those who label us ‘hooligans’ have very little understanding of feminism nor of the history and culture of civil society nor indeed of how democratic institutions work. They have (which is a lot of women) grown up with the social mandate that says “be nice”. History has taught us that being nice got us nowhere.

Another confusion is with regard to AWARE as a women’s organization. What is AWARE? Is it a welfare organization? Is it a social club?

It is both. But AWARE is more than that. AWARE’s founding members realized that AWARE needed to go beyond maintaining the status quo if women’s aspiration to be treated as equals to the men were ever to be achieved.

AWARE, then, set out to follow the feminist ideology and mode of action. It became a movement for social, political, and economic equality of men and women. Equality, in these terms, is a balance between the male and female with the intention of liberating the individual.

Feminism’s goals are social and political change. This means one must be engaged with the government and law, as well as social practices and beliefs. And implicit to these goals is access to sufficient information to enable women to make responsible choices.

Take for example one issue that AWARE pioneered and feminist organization the world over) and promoted – domestic violence. Until feminism, there was no word for battered women or domestic violence, no legal protection and no shelter system. AWARE needed to raise consciousness of the public, policy-makers and the victims to succeed in raising the issue as a serious concern and lobby for laws to garner mainstream support and provide victims with support.

But unfortunately when the concern becomes mainstream, as it has in Singapore, the resulting social programs are reduced to treating the symptoms rather than curing-or preventing-the disease. This is the mode of action of welfare organizations.

In order to have a robust movement, domestic violence and economic development need to be re-identified as feminist issues and victories.

Take all the concerns that AWARE has pioneered and promoted – citizenship rights, equal medical benefits, one-third quota in the medical faculty and others – have all since become mainstream issues.

Another case in point is sexual harassment. This was again not recognized nor acknowledged till AWARE did the survey two years ago. The feminist mode of action for AWARE would be to lobby for laws against sexual harassment, public policies and protocol to deal with harassment in the workplace, trainings for implementation of these laws, and process to help women through the process.

Feminism requires action and responsibility for oneself. A feminist organization such as AWARE is required to work for political and social change; campaign for laws and policies that support individuals toward equality; provide individuals with the knowledge, skills and power to make their own choices and respect each other as equals.

This is why AWARE can never ‘be nice’. If it becomes ‘nice’ it would have failed in its mandate.

Constance Singam
July 8 2009

Related:

• July 11, 2009 -- Rawkin’
• June 5, 2009 -- They’re Coming to Get You
• June 1, 2009 -- How ST covered the story
• May 28, 2009 -- Sin Boon Ann: AWARE & Failure of the Media
• May 28, 2009 -- Koo Tsai Kee: Tolerance & Diversity

Nevertheless the current EXCO would prefer to move forward instead of pursuing action against Josie Lau and her team. The present EXCO has since asked various service providers for discounts and donations and has reduced costs by $8,000.

___

At the 2 May EGM several members queried Josie Lau and her Exco about the cost of the EGM. Calls were made, both at the EGM and in media forums subsequently, for the money to be recovered from the members of that Exco.

After taking office, the current Exco formed an internal review team to look into the expenses incurred by the previous Exco and determine whether their decisions and actions adhered to the AWARE Constitution and other established practices.

The EGM cost a total of $99,291.28. This was not quite covered by the $98,765.70 in membership fees paid by the 2,748 people who joined AWARE or who renewed their membership between 29 March and 2 May.

The current Exco wrote to all the companies that provided services at the EGM, explained the financial situation and asked them to consider making a donation to AWARE. Rajah & Tann have donated $5,000 and Deloitte & Touche $3,000, while Boardroom has indicated that it will be making a donation. Suntec and Ape Communications declined on the grounds that they had, in total, given AWARE a 26.5% discount on the facilities and services provided.

The review team found that the previous Exco did not adhere fully to the AWARE Constitution and established practices. Also, they could have avoided some of the costs, for instance, by trying to get pro bono legal advice and asking AWARE volunteers to act as scrutineers.

“We will not, however, be taking any action against the previous Exco,” said Ms Lam. “There are several reasons for this. We recognise that they were handicapped by their lack of NGO experience. Secondly, we have been able to recover part of the costs through the generosity of some of the vendors.

“Most importantly, we want to get on with our work – which is to identify and help remove the obstacles that prevent women from realising their full potential. This is, and has always been, AWARE’s agenda.”

Related Coverage:

• ST Breaking News – New Aware team sets goals
• Channel News Asia – AWARE proposes changes to its constitution
• ST Breaking News – No action to reclaim $100k
• ST Breaking News – Josie Lau’s team won’t be sued
• ST Breaking News – Aware to report on women

Press Kit:

• PressKIT EXCO Profiles
• Aware Media Con 6 July – Dana’s Opening Remarks
• AWARE Media Release 6 July 2009
• AWARE Media Release 6 July 2009 – EGM costs

Related:

• July 7, 2009 -- Video: New AWARE Training Institute Programmes
• July 7, 2009 -- AWARE Press Con Highlights
• May 31, 2009 -- Dana Lam: No Apologies
• February 22, 2009 -- Dana Lam – File Photos
• June 18, 2009 -- IS Interview: Dana Lam

Hafizah (“Fizz”) was elected to the AWARE EXCO at the 2nd May 2009 EGM

___

Give us your feedback: who else would you like to see interviewed?

Related:

• July 2, 2009 -- Video: Yvonne Reflects
• June 18, 2009 -- Video: Aye See Reflects
• June 10, 2009 -- Video: Meera Jane Reflects
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Hafizah Osman
• July 7, 2009 -- Video: New AWARE Training Institute Programmes

Dana

 
Will you be making changes to your constitution to prevent a repeat of a backdoor takeover?

YES. We are looking into tightening processes to ensure whoever is standing for election will have at least done some groundwork and has some knowledge of what is to be AWARE.

 
There is also a sizeable groundswell of opinion that some of your policies are out of step of with Singapore’s societal values. What do you say about that? And what are you doing about such perceptions?

Our programmes and policies are guided by the principles of gender equality for all. In the past 24 years we have successfully lobbied for the removal of the quota on women entering medical school, for equal medical benefits in the civil service, for protection against spousal violence and the rights of children born to Singapore women with foreign spouses.

We have contributed research papers on the experiences in our schools, on population issues and, on aging in Singapore among others. Ultimately, we are for a gender equal society where women have equal opportunity, choices and responsibilities with men.

If this is against Singapore values, what can I say? But, I would like to think we live in a more compassionate and reasoned society than our detractors appear to imply. I don’t think of it as being conservative or liberal. You can be conservative and still be compassionate and reasoned. You can be liberal and still be reasoned and compassionate, can’t you?

 
How did last Saturday’s “touch-base” with new members go? How many actually turned up? What events did you guys have?

We had over 20 people. Among them was an 18 year old college student who has volunteered her time during this June break. She said she was moved by the discovery that she didn’t have to fight for what are her rights today because they had been fought for her. We also heard AWARE has gone up in ‘cool’ factor among younger women! That is good to know. I think the best thing from May 2 is how it gave women and men a very real experience of what it is like to be counted.

 
Will you use this new mandate to try to build more tolerance and openness in other areas of Singapore life – not just gender equality but also racial and religious equality.

Our constitution is women specific. Although, I would say tolerance -non discrimination – is implicit in the core values of Trust, Respect and Choices for all women.

Related:

• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Margaret Thomas
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Farid Hamid
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Hafizah Osman
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Pamela Poh
• June 13, 2009 -- IS Interview: Joanna D’cruz

 
A warm thank you to everyone who made the day possible.

Related:

• July 7, 2009 -- Video: New AWARE Training Institute Programmes
• July 2, 2009 -- Video: Yvonne Reflects
• June 25, 2009 -- Video: Hafizah Reflects
• June 18, 2009 -- Video: Aye See Reflects
• June 10, 2009 -- Video: Meera Jane Reflects

Margie

 
How long have you been with Aware?

Right from the start. Was a speaker at the Women’s Choices, Women’s Lives forum in 1984 that led to the formation of Aware, and then a member of the pro-tem committee.

What is your role within the organization as an exco member?

Ordinary exco member.

 
Individually, what are you tasked to do in the next 12 months or so?

Communications.

 
What have you learnt from the recent Aware controversy?

Several lessons:

• Singaporeans are not as apathetic as they have sometimes been made out to be, judging from the turnout at the EGM
• Many Singaporeans see the vital importance of maintaining our secular society, and are ready to step forward and defend it
• There are, however, some who are so caught up in their religiously defined perspective that they will act in very questionable ways
• NGOs like Aware have to be alert to the possibility that people who disagree with their aims and activities will attempt to hijack their organisations
• If the hijack fails, these people may continue to snipe at the NGO and keep repeating baseless accusations about the NGO’s aims and activities

 
In your individual opinion, what misconceptions about Aware continue to remain after this saga?

That Aware now has a pro-gay agenda and has attempted to promote homosexuality.

 
There is also a sizeable groundswell of opinion that some of your policies are out of step of with Singapore ’s societal values. What do you say about that? And as an individual, what are you doing about such perceptions?

If there is indeed such a ‘groundswell’ it is one that has been engineered by someone who, driven by her faith-based perspective, has decided that Aware needs to be fixed. She has completely misread Aware’s activities and continues to mislead the public on this.

It is sobering to see how mis-truths can spread and cloud public perception, and it is worrying to find that there are Singaporeans who will make judgments on the strength of these mis-truths.

 
What are some the biggest challenges faced by Singapore women today?

Lack of support for the multi-layered roles they play in society, compounded by the perception in many quarters that men should be the head of the household.

 
Has the recent controversy set the organization back? If so, how should the organization build itself up from here on in?

Yes and no. We now have 10 times as many members, and many more people in Singapore are now aware of AWARE. Unfortunately some of these people see Aware in the wrong light.

Contrary to what Dr Thio Su Mien continues to maintain, Aware does not have and has never had a pro-gay agenda. Aware has never promoted homosexuality. Aware has only ever promoted gender equality.

We just have to keep countering the mis-truths and misconceptions while continuing with our work. We have to stay connected to the many new members who signed up because they either believed in Aware’s cause or wanted to help maintain secularism in Singapore and the space for a diversity of views.

Related:

• June 18, 2009 -- IS Interview: Dana Lam
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Farid Hamid
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Hafizah Osman
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Pamela Poh
• June 13, 2009 -- IS Interview: Joanna D’cruz

Hafizah

 
What are the main issues faced by Malay-Muslim women in Singapore today?

Given the current economic climate, I believe one of the main concerns would be economic stability. While not a major over-riding concern, there is still, I believe the issue of domestic violence.

 
As the sole Malay-Muslim member on the exco how will you address the above issues?

As a member of Exco I contribute to discussions and decision making. I also lend my skills and advice on website management and design. I think one of the most important things is to help publicise the programmes that AWARE has to offer – for example the Helpline services. It is important that women in distress, regardless race or religion have access to services they need.

 
As a committee member on the new exco what do you expect Aware to build towards in the next 12 months?

AWARE has done great work in the past 24 years and she will continue to do great work in the many years to come. At the present moment, our challenge really is to keep our members engaged and to be able to respond to their immediate needs and concerns. For me personally, I would like to see AWARE and her members continue with the great energy and enthusiasm that had brought so many of us together.

 
Personally, what have you learnt from the recent Aware saga and how will you be putting those lessons to use in the next 12 months?

For me personally, it was a wake up call of sorts. While I have been supportive of AWARE and have been familiar with AWARE since the late 80s, I haven’t really felt the need to join as a member. With the events that took place pre-EGM, I felt the need to do something about it and started getting involved. Moving forward, it is important that AWARE remains an inclusive organisation that embraces diversity. We must be sensitive to the needs of the women that we are looking to represent.

 
There is also a sizeable groundswell of opinion that some of your policies are out of step of with Singapore’s societal values. What do you say about that? And what will you and the new exco be doing about such perceptions?

AWARE promotes gender equality, non-discrimination and non-violence against women. How are these against Singapore’s societal values? Having said that, as an advocacy group and agent for change we understand the nature of our work can put us “out of step” with the rest of society. While we remain sensitive to divergent views the nature of our organisation is that we push the boundaries ever so often.

Related:

• June 25, 2009 -- Video: Hafizah Reflects
• June 18, 2009 -- IS Interview: Dana Lam
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Margaret Thomas
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Farid Hamid
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Pamela Poh

Joanna a new member of the AWARE EXCO

 
How long have you been with Aware?

Since July 2008. I was coordinating AWARE’s public education programes

 
What have you learnt from the recent Aware controversy?

I have learnt there is a lot of misconception about certain issues and people are very willing to extrapolate and jump to conclusions instead of finding out the facts first. I have also learnt there are people in Singapore who are passionate, articulated and who believe in speaking out and standing up for issues that are important to them. This is something I admire.

 
What is your role within the organization as an exco member?

As a member of the Executive Committee I contribute to decision making by bringing my views to the table. I also help out with the various duties.

 
Individually, what are you tasked to do in the next 12 months or so?

In the past weeks, I have been tasked with picking up the threads for the Top Girls project along with Martha. This project was initiated by the 2008 Exco (led by Constance Singam) It had suffered a little from the recent upheaval. We have another fund-raising project, a flag-day, coming up in August. It would be good if you cld publicise this when it come. I’m interested in public education so I’m likely to continue working in this area in the months ahead. However, we are discussing and defining the direction for the year and our duties could be further defined.

 
In your individual opinion, what misconceptions about Aware continue to remain after this saga?

I think the biggest misconception is the idea that AWARE has a lesbian agenda and that we are somehow narrowly focused on it. This is SO not true!

 
There is also a sizeable groundswell of opinion that some of your policies are out of step of with Singapore’s societal values. What do you say about that? And as an individual, what are you doing about such perceptions?

Since its inception in 1985, AWARE has always believed in a society where trust, respect and choice are the fundamental core values. Which I believe is in line with Singapore’s societal values. Singapore is a multi-cultural, multi-religion, multi-race country and in such a unique environment, it is imperative that everyone should have the right to equal opportunities.

 
What are some the biggest challenges faced by Singapore women today?

Well, women in different circumstances face different problems. In general, I think the equation of self-worth with the size and shape of her body and the fairness of her complexion perpetuated in the media is a insidious problem.

 
Has the recent controversy set the organization back? If so, how should the organization build itself up from heron in?

AWARE now has 3000 members, it’s highest number in 24 years. Sure there were some dramas that came along with it but life wouldn’t be exciting if there weren’t any. I don’t believe that the controversy was a set back, in fact I think it has helped this organization. And with this we will continue to grow and learn and make it better.

Related:

• June 18, 2009 -- IS Interview: Dana Lam
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Margaret Thomas
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Farid Hamid
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Hafizah Osman
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Pamela Poh

Joo Hymn is the Honorary Treasurer of Aware

What are the more immediate tasks you face as honorary treasurer for the new exco?
Review of the financial SOPs, to make sure that all processes for good governance are in place, and procedures are all clearly spelt out.

What are the main financial concerns faced by the organization in the short run?
To raise enough money for this year and the next.

As treasurer what are your short-term, mid-term and long-term goals for the organization?
By year end: To ensure that there is a comprehensive set of policies and guidelines in place for financial management that is clearly communicated to all staff and volunteers; and to hound the fundraising sub-comm to ensure there is sufficient money for next year.

How does Aware prioritize which of its program needs the most funding?
The Helpline and Direct services have recurring expenses, for which funds need to be raised every year. Some of our projects carry over from previous years. For other projects, the sub-committee responsible submits an estimated budget, and Exco approves the budget and raises the funds needed before the sub-committee can incur expenses.

Which program is the costliest to run?
Helpline and direct services.

The ousted exco spent over $90,000 in a month. How has this set the organization back and will there be any cutbacks because of this reckless spending?
We are still reviewing this expenditure, but it does look as if the increased membership subscription has not covered this amount (unlike what one of the ousted Exco’s supporters said at the EGM). We would like to raise more money to continue with our programmes, rather than cutting back.

Personally, what have you learnt from the recent Aware saga and how will you be putting those lessons to use in the next 12 months?
To ensure that there are sufficient checks and balances in place for large expenditures.

Related:

• June 18, 2009 -- IS Interview: Dana Lam
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Margaret Thomas
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Farid Hamid
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Hafizah Osman
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Pamela Poh

Nicole

 
How long have you been with Aware?

For the longest. Remember paying for my lifetime membership with one of my paychecks as a first year lawyer.

 
What have you learnt from the recent Aware controversy?

I had not been an active member for some time. But I decided to come out of the woodwork when there was a sudden change in leadership. Aware is the only credible feminist voice. My voice, my sisters’ voice is worth fighting for.

 
What is your role within the organization as an exco member?
Individually, what are you tasked to do in the next 12 months or so?

I bring my professional skills to the table. In particular, with the increase in membership, I look forward to working with the Legal Sub-committee on the governance structure of AWARE.

To be part of the “rainbow coalition”; to share my thoughts and views so that the collective voice would be one that embraces a diversity of viewpoints.

 
In your individual opinion, what misconceptions about Aware continue to remain after this saga?

That we have a hidden homosexual agenda.

 
There is also a sizeable groundswell of opinion that some of your policies are out of step of with Singapore’s societal values. What do you say about that? And as an individual, what are you doing about such perceptions?
Is there a groundswell of opinion? I am not too sure about that. Could it be a vocal minority?

Secondly, considering that we are a global city with a multi-racial and multi-religious tapestry, could there indeed be “Singapore’s societal values”. I am also uncomfortable with the phrase because it sounds so much like “Asian values”. What are these values, specifically?

If we are talking about informed choice; respect and dignity for all, I believe these values are universal and my fellow Singaporeans subscribe to these values too.

There may be some issues or concerns that we may be “out of step” with the majority. We are after all an advocacy / civil society group. For example, for AWARE, sex without consent is rape, even within a married couple.

 
What are some the biggest challenges faced by Singapore women today?

To have it all and to do it all. There are so many roles that we play – mother, wife, daughter, career woman, chauffer; hostess; party organizer; teacher, cook … the list goes on. Something’s got to give.

Equal opportunity. It is not just same work for same pay. But rather, is a woman given the same opportunity to do the same work. Are there sufficient female role models? Do employers value diversity and promote and train women as they do men.

 
Has the recent controversy set the organization back? If so, how should the organization build itself up from heron in?

Yes, it has. We have been inaccurately labeled and thus marginalized. Singaporeans are pragmatic, at the end of the day, if we doggedly continue to deliver on our myriad of programs, public opinion will eventually be swayed.

Related:

• June 18, 2009 -- IS Interview: Dana Lam
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Margaret Thomas
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Farid Hamid
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Hafizah Osman
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Pamela Poh

Martha

 
How long have you been with Aware?
8 years as an active volunteer and member.

 
What have you learnt from the recent Aware controversy?

I have learnt many things from the Aware controversy:
• Not to take for granted what Aware is and stands for
• The importance of always having grace, dignity and wits about in any situation
• To stand up for what is important to me and what I believe in
• What a group of passionate women can achieve in a short amount of time and it begins from believing in myself and my abilities
• To accept that having done your best to be at peace with oneself

 
What is your role within the organization as an exco member?
As Committee member, I attend Exco meetings and contribute towards the discussions and decision making for the betterment of Aware and advancement of women in Singapore.

 
Individually, what are you tasked to do in the next 12 months or so?
I have most recently helped with the Top Girls fundraiser which ended at DBS Arts Centre on 30 May. I am representing the New Media, Public Relations as well as Direct Services subcomm on Exco. I will take on additional responsibilities as needed.

 
In your individual opinion, what misconceptions about Aware continue to remain after this saga?
Some of the misconceptions would include that Aware has an agenda to promote homosexuality; is and had been irrelevant to the women of Singapore and society at large; and that we had wavered from our original mission. These are all untrue.

 
There is also a sizeable groundswell of opinion that some of your policies are out of step of with Singapore’s societal values. What do you say about that? And as an individual, what are you doing about such perceptions?
I would invite them to join Aware, participate in our programmes, and run alongside us. If they took time to understand the work we have been doing and the approaches we have undertaken, they might then reevaluate if our policies are really out of step with Singapore’s societal values and in the meantime do a great deal of good work. As an individual, I would correct such perceptions where possible.

 
What are some the biggest challenges faced by Singapore women today?
There is no one single type of Singapore woman. The women of Singapore have multi-dimensional concerns and challenges in life which might include the areas of self, family, work, and society. There are populations of Singapore women which have the bigger challenges: single mothers, divorced women, and foreign wives. All of whom Aware had done and will continue to do work in.

 
Has the recent controversy set the organization back? If so, how should the organization build itself up from heron in?
The controversy has galvanized Aware. We have 3000 members, many of whom are keen to contribute actively. We will involve them in their areas of interests, and groom those with potential. We will immediately go about rebuilding relations with our long-time donors, funders and supporters. The work will continue and those who know us, know that the work speaks for itself.

Related:

• June 18, 2009 -- IS Interview: Dana Lam
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Margaret Thomas
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Farid Hamid
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Hafizah Osman
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Pamela Poh

I-Jin is the Vice President of Aware.

I-Jin (right) hugs Ching Wi at the end of the EGM

As vice-president, how do you see your new role going forward?

If Dana is the leader of the band, I’m her understudy! Actually, the reality is that we have a very democratic leadership and I don’t see myself as being #2 or being anything other than an equal member of a team of amazing women. Everyone in the exco has the attributes of a good “leader” in her own right and we actively discuss things to arrive at a reasoned consensus – amidst a lot of support and laughter. This is what I love about the old and “real” Aware. We have an ex President and ex Vice-president in our exco and I am learning from them and all members all the time. I’ve not held such a lofty position in Aware before and I hope to grow into the role with as much strength, grace and wisdom as I can muster.

How different will your new role be compared to your previous designation of assistant honorary treasurer?

I’m not signing cheques!

Will the organization be stronger because of the controversy or weaker? Why?

Stronger for our internal review process, new policies in place, focus on work to be done and the benefits that have come with a passionate and energetic new membership. However, in some ways we are weakened in the eyes of the average person by the harmful misrepresentations of a perceived “agenda” by people who appear to have their own – people who find feminism and advancements in sexual politics a threat to the belief structures that they cling to.

What are some the biggest challenges faced by Singapore women today?

How to live a balanced life without having to exploit another sector of women (foreign maids). How to help your kids juggle the pressures of school without taking them on yourself. How to avoid the consumerist trap and feel you have to keep up with the material aspirations of other Singaporeans. Having a positive body-image – everyone is so obsessed with their weight and appearance.

Will Aware make good on the offer of the ousted exco to serve on committees and help the organization?

It’s on a voluntary basis and certainly they can come forward to volunteer in areas of interest. If objectives are in alignment then there is no reason not to but if they are not aligned, I am not sure how they can contribute positively.

What are some of the lessons you’ve learned from the saga? How will it shape your policymaking decisions from hereon in?

I’ve really come to appreciate what we had in Aware when for one month I had to experience a total change in culture and values and level of respect for staff and volunteers. Though I have found a great deal of validation, support and appreciation for Aware’s work amongst some groups, I have also learnt that there is still lack of tolerance and a great deal of misunderstanding about what we do amongst others. Not long ago we wondered whether Singaporeans felt that Aware was irrelevant but it clearly isn’t. We are inspired to engage the public in more debate, discussion and involvement in our research. I have been absolutely inspired by the people who have come forward and now we can actively work on leadership renewal. Among the lessons learnt include much needed amendments to our processes, tapping on the talent and passion of our new members and ensuring that those who join share the same overarching values.

There is also a sizeable groundswell of opinion that some of your policies are out of step of with Singapore’s societal values. What do you say about that? And what are you doing about such perceptions?

Aware adopts the values of trust, respect and choice which we feel are values which are dearly held by our multi-faceted and multi-racial society. However, as an advocacy group, we would necessarily be “out of sync” in that our role is to raise issues and surface “gaps” which the majority do not notice or might neglect…

Related:

• June 18, 2009 -- IS Interview: Dana Lam
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Margaret Thomas
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Farid Hamid
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Hafizah Osman
• June 14, 2009 -- IS Interview: Pamela Poh

At the EGM, the previous Exco reported that it had spent some $90,000 from the time it took office. On the face of it, this does seem excessive and does exceed the monthly spending limit of the Executive Committee as specified in the Constitution.
The current Exco is reviewing documents provided at the recent handover before deciding on appropriate action.

More about our fundraiser ‘Top Girls’

‘Top Girls’ is a fundraiser whose ticket sales has been hampered due to the Aware saga. Now that the dust has settled, we need your support. The funds raised through sponsorship, donations and sale of tickets for the Gala evening will enable AWARE to continue its work which includes:

• Direct Services which comprise the AWARE Helpline, Counselling, the Befriender’s Service and Legal Clinic
• Educational Programmes such as Financial Intelligence Training
• Research such as a Survey on work-life balance

‘Top Girls’ is being staged from 27^th May to 30^th May. Tickets for the Gala Night on 30^th May are at $80 each. This comes with an invite to a reception brought to us by Harry’s and WineGuru. Please call AWARE Centre 6779 7137 or email tickets@aware.org.sg to buy tickets.

Normal performances
Dates:  27th, 28th 29th May at 8pm.
Venue: DBS Arts Theatre, 20 Merbau Road, Singapore 239035
Ticket prices: $40 (Students $25) Tickets through Sistic. Link: http://tinyurl.com/p86pvy.

Top Girls AWARE Gala Night
Date: Saturday 30th May at 8pm (7p.m. Gala evening and reception)
Tickets price:  $80. Tickets through AWARE e-mail: tickets@aware.org.sg; or telephone AWARE 67797137 (10.00am – 5.00pm). You may download the order form at http://tiny.cc/FAljI.

Volunteer Opportunities

The way ahead for AWARE is a very fresh, exciting new one and we can only do it with volunteers of a range of skills and professionalism. These are some of the volunteer opportunities available:

• Fundraising – Interest/ experience in publicity, marketing, and/ or organization.
• Designers/ Illustrators – Interest/ experience in graphic design for print/ web
• Website development – Interest/ experience in WordPress and/ or Joomla
• New Media: Interest/ experience with new media outreach methods such as Facebook, Twitter and blogging.
• Database management – Interest/ experience in maintaining the integrity of databases
• Writing/ archival – Interest/ experiencing in book projects
• Research – Interest/ experience in conducting and analyzing research

If you are interested in any of the positions above, please send us

• your contact details (name, mobile, and email address)
• your resume and/ or experience in the field
• with the position of interest in the email header to volunteers@we-are-aware.sg.

Also you have interests not listed above, please let us know at volunteers@we-are-aware.sg. We will be sending out periodic volunteer opportunities.

Related:

• May 7, 2009 -- Standing by the CSE
• May 4, 2009 -- We All Won!
• July 16, 2009 -- Why AWARE cannot “be Nice”
• July 11, 2009 -- Rawkin’
• June 18, 2009 -- Video Tribute to Volunteers

It is urgent and critical that AWARE and our civil society transcend organisational norms and leadership structures, so as to seize the opening and momentum of May 2nd for the greater freedom and good of Singapore. In the spirit of working for all women and men with trust, respect and choice, I would like to voice out my honest observations and concerns. My deep apologies if I cause any misunderstand in this clumsy sharing.

Although I joined AWARE 15 years ago and contributed to its helpline and a few excos, I am not sure if I am an old-guard. When I was working with a passionate group of women and men for the past two weeks preparing for the EGM, I was not sure if I was old-new or new-new member. Does this identifying really matter? Of course not, so what really matters? AWARE and Singapore.

1. The House of AWARE – Limitations of Inactive Members and Leadership Challenges

AWARE is not the only CSO or even civic organisation that faces the challenge of inactive members and leadership transition issues. In fact, I would venture to say most organisations face similar challenges. Let us examine the root causes. For the past 24 years, AWARE is a house where feminists try hard to co-exist and unite. Alas, feminists come in all ideologies and cultural backgrounds. No matter how you agree to disagree or not fight, there will be tensions and multiple positions. Our passions and anxieties were further heightened as we were “held ransom” by a singular identity that society “restrict” onto us – AWARE women.

The head of a household can only be an individual or a small team of leaders. Surely, it cannot be that everyone living in the house can be heads of household? Hence, over the years, the torch bearers for AWARE became the dedicated “old guards”. For all the years when AWARE did not have sufficient people running for exco, the “old guards” came forth to carry on the torch. Overtime, sub-cultures evolved among these regular leaders and new members. My personal journey in AWARE is such that I felt the shoes of the regular leaders too big to fill. I was not sure how much I should push for my ideas or introduce new ways of working as I respect the years of hard work and sacrifice that the regular leaders put in to grow AWARE. Hence we have this unfortunate situation where the regular leaders kept asking for more help while the new members do not dare to step up. This seems to be a common script in most organisations that are registered societies.

2. An AWARE Village with a Computer Server In the Rainbow Coalition

In 1999, when the working committee (TWC), a network of civil society activists from diverse fields was organically formed, I quickly got myself involved as I wanted to find out how else civil society activists could organise ourselves. I discovered there were other ways of organising, such as a company limited by guarantee or social movement coalitions. Internationally we witnessed the complex coordinated protests by the international civil society at the 2000 Seattle WTO meeting. Locally, we see groups such as Raleigh Singapore, Food For Thought, ECO, HOME and TWC2 innovating their leadership, membership, organisation, and coalition technologies. With the recent EGM, we-are-aware was able to mobilise, communicate and recruit in very short time and with great efficiency and tremendous fun!

There is much for the current AWARE exco to review, restore and engage our membership of 3000. It is a very happy challenge for sure and we can consider a hybrid organisational format of an interest group with the new social movements. NSMs emphasize civic aspects of social changes in lifestyle and culture, rather than restricting changes in the public and economic aspects. Hence, NSMs do not need to be formal organisations with members but informal, loosely organised social network of supporters. Interestingly, NSMs seem to last longer than single issue campaigns and aim at change on various issues in relation to their set of beliefs and ideals. This hybrid solves our leadership renewal challenge as we no longer need to restrict ourselves into one house but honour the blooming of a hundred flowers all at the same time(百花齐放).

Indeed AWARE can expand its house to include the diverse interests and concerns of its new members while staying true to its focus of research, advocacy and direct services towards gender equity – much like a village with a computer server, to link up on the internet. In this way, the AWARE values of trust, respect, choice, diversity, inclusiveness and openness need not contradict in physical groupings or cyberspace groupings. And AWARE can work creatively and strategically with other stakeholders in the Rainbow Coalition.

3. Healing After the Storm – An Inward Journey of Gratitude and Letting Go

As a civil society activist and social worker, I am so aware of the importance of self-care. In the past two weeks and coming months, I am so grateful for fellow activists who have cared for me and who will continue to do so. I will do the same for you all. Self-care at a personal level involves taking stock of our fears, anxieties and ego; and trusting a few people into our lives to love and support us deeply. Self-care at an organisation level entails members coming together to process hurt and affirm unity and love. Self-care at a civil society level requires us to be generous and respect differences.

4. Enjoy the Rainbow

There is really no point holding blindly on to anger, fear or ego, as we have learnt from our immediate past exco. Let it go, and be free and be alive to enjoy the rainbow!

The strength of civil society is exactly creative problem solving propelling by a sense of justice and truth. If a house does not provide for leadership renewal or multiple heads, then let’s build a village. If the village is too far to reach, let’s build a virtual community. Learning from the achievements of the EGM, as long as we are united, we trust and we respect, hundred flowers will bloom towards greater equity and compassion. The pot of gold at the end of this rainbow coalition certainly can be shared with all like-minded folks, disadvantaged people, animals and the entire eco system.

For all women (men, animals and plants) – trust, respect, choice.

Related:

• May 3, 2009 -- Open Letter: The euphoria and the reality
• June 5, 2009 -- They’re Coming to Get You
• June 1, 2009 -- How ST covered the story
• May 31, 2009 -- Dana Lam: No Apologies
• May 19, 2009 -- Being Culturally Aware

Related:

• April 28, 2009 -- Video: One Cause for All Women
• July 7, 2009 -- Video: New AWARE Training Institute Programmes
• July 6, 2009 -- AWARE Presscon: The $90k Question
• July 2, 2009 -- Video: Yvonne Reflects
• June 25, 2009 -- Video: Hafizah Reflects