Through the event, Pink Dot Sg hopes to show that Singapore can be a better society if it breaks down the barriers to understanding. The event on May 16th will be Singapore’s first public showing of support for an LGBT cause. However, it is open to everyone – young and old, straight and gay.
The topic of homosexuality was last broached openly more than a year ago, during Parliamentary debates on Section 377A – the penal code that criminalises homosexual acts. Not much has changed for LGBT Singaporeans since then, many of whom continue to live secret lives, afraid of compromising relationships with their family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances.
Today, many Singaporeans harbour negative impressions about the LGBT community. Pink Dot Sg believes this may be due to a limited understanding amongst the populace. Discordant laws and policies aside, ignorance and fear are potent catalysts for prejudice and bigotry. This goes against the grain of a diverse and inclusive Singapore.
Everyone assumes that all Singaporeans have the freedom to love. The event on May 16th invites all Singaporeans to ponder this basic freedom and what it means for those who live their lives, hiding their true selves from the people they love.
Roy Tan, a member of the Pink Dot Sg organizing committee, says, “As Singaporeans, we have come to accept everyone’s right to love across racial, cultural and religious barriers. The only line left to cross is that of sexual orientation. The event is for everyone, regardless of their age, sexual orientation and political beliefs. It is a gathering of people who believe in the freedom to love and to lend their support towards open-mindedness and understanding. No prior registration is required. Just show up and if possible, come dressed in pink!”
Details
Date: 16th May 2009 (Saturday)
Time: 4:30pm
Venue: Hong Lim Park, Singapore
No registration is required for this 100% legal event.
Look for us online on Facebook or visit http://pinkdot.sg.
About Pink Dot Sg
Pink Dot Sg is a non-profit movement started by a group of individuals who care deeply about the place that LGBT Singaporeans call home. Pink because it’s a blend of red and white – the colour of Singapore’s national flag. Also, it is the colour of our national identification cards. More importantly, Pink Dot Sg stands for a Singapore in which all Singaporeans, regardless of their sexual orientation, are free to love and be loved.
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