Why Aware is important to ordinary Singaporeans

Why Aware is important to ordinary Singaporeans

WHEN I was in primary school, my father rounded up his three daughters and asked if we wanted to learn how to change a light bulb.

We were not enthusiastic, so my father asked if we would rather our mother cooked for us in the dark. We quickly learnt that girls can and have to do "boy things".

I discovered the Association of Women for Action and Research (Aware) in the National University of Singapore library. Its views and initiatives were so refreshing and empowering. They actually provided explanations behind seemingly natural feminine behaviour such as wearing high heels and keeping quiet.

After graduation, I joined Aware and volunteered in its advocacy initiatives and helpline. I have become so much more confident and alive thanks to the friendships of so many great women at Aware. It has groomed me into a more competent worker, caring daughter and respectful wife. It has also given me the inspiration to contribute towards Singapore's nation building.

In its 24 years, Aware has also contributed towards changing the way the police handle rape cases, laws allowing women to sponsor their foreign spouses for citizenship or permanent resident status, and bringing about a constitutional amendment to accord the same citizenship rights to the children of Singaporean women.

A lot more can be done to improve gender equality, encourage change and achieve gains for women - not at the expense of men, but in ways that benefit families and society as a whole. Aware's takeover is a wake-up call to Singapore. Living in a society that Aware has helped made more inclusive and diverse, how can we show our gratitude?

Yap Ching Wi (Ms)

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