Remain focused on entire spectrum of women's concerns

Remain focused on entire spectrum of women's concerns

I REFER to the ongoing debate about Aware. That its Constitution provided for democratic elections and, hence, takeovers, seems clear. Old members should just accept the rules everyone plays by.

The new exco also mentioned its concerns about an over-emphasis on a single issue of women, namely, lesbianism. That is also a legitimate concern for some women, especially mothers with daughters at an impressionable age.

Aware has in the past contributed to the improvement of women's welfare. It should continue to do so and not be sidetracked by this controversy. It should refocus on its entire spectrum of concerns and give them a fair degree of attention.

A single screening of a movie in 2006 does not constitute that big a deal, taken in the context of what Aware has done in 24 years. Nor are a few talks given in schools about homosexuality. It comes across as a bit of an overreaction.

It is, however, a little discomforting that the new exco appears to be less sympathetic towards homosexuality. The organisation that fights for women should do so, regardless of race, religion or sexual orientation. Personal beliefs and bias centred on religion should be discouraged. We are, after all, a multiracial country with different religions. Mutual respect and acceptance of one another's beliefs are paramount.

The new Aware is now being watched by everyone. Its actions will be monitored and scrutinised. Let us hope that all the good work done in the past will continue to be improved on and not derailed. In the larger scheme of things, lesbianism is but a single facet of women's issues. Let us not get carried away in this debate.

Homosexuality is a controversial issue. Society is still evolving in baby steps towards its acceptance. As witnessed, old fears still abound, so let us take it a step at a time.

Chang Wei Meng

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