Old Aware exco rebukes Josie Lau during press conference at Bishan Junction 8

Old Aware exco rebukes Josie Lau during press conference at Bishan Junction 8

The old AWARE exco held a press conference in the evening at Bishan Junction 8 to rebut the allegations brought forth by the new exco last night about its homosexual agenda.

It was attended by ex-AWARE presidents Constance Singam, Dana Lam and Kanwaljit Soin as well as leaders from various NGOs.

In a statement released to the press, the old AWARE exco called the new exco “moral vigilantes”.

The panelists took pains to clarify that AWARE was neither pro- or anti-gay and homosexuality formed only an insignficant component in the programmes of AWARE.

Dr Kawanwaljit Soin said that AWARE cannot be an ostrich and pretend that homosexuality doesn’t exist in real life echoing a similar sentiment shared by both ex-PMs Lee Kuan Yew and Goh Chok Tong.

AWARE’s past programmes such as the schools’ sexuality programmes have no hidden agenda because the old guards believe in being open and inclusive.

Dr Soin also expressed her surprise at Dr Thio Su Mien’s claim that she was a feminist close to AWARE.

“I don’t remember seeing Dr Thio Su Mien at any of the meeting [of Aware} in the past.”, she remarked in exasperation.

“I have not heard of Dr Thio Su Mien being called a feminist before, but then you can always have closet feminists”.

However, Dr Soin expressed her sympathies to new exco President Josie Lau who allegedly received death threats.

During the session, the panelists answered many allegations brought about by the new exco such as the films shown in the past, allowing men to vote and its apparently “low” membership which is attributed to AWARE’s ‘lay back’ style.

While Dr Soin was feisty and in a combative mood, recent events appeared to have taken a toll on Constance Singam who broke down a few times during the conference.

She felt it was unfair that the immediate past exco has to shoulder so much responsibility for the fallout.

“The lack of trust and lack of justice occurred on the day of takeover. I am saddened by what is happening. The wew guards should be responsible for what is happening. Old guard was “too trusting”, she exclaimed.

Contrary to the claims of the new exco, Constance explained that instructions were given to staff to co-operate with new Aware exco.

“The appearance they give is that they’re not ready for dialogue, The old guard is always ready for dialogue.” Dr Soin interjected.

The panelists maintained a dignified silence when asked about if they have any concerted plans for the EGM next week.

In the meantime, an online petition to “save AWARE” has garned over 500 signatures so far in the span of two days.

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