AS ITS new president, Ms Josie Lau says her priority is to reconcile members of the Association of Women And Research (Aware) following the controversial leadership change on March 28.
She hopes that an extraordinary general meeting to be held soon will provide an opportunity for an open discussion.
'The team has clearly fissured. I want to operate such that my members can support me, and we can all disagree in an agreeable environment,' she said.
Put aside differences, fulfil responsibilities
I CALL on all parties involved in the Association of Women for Action and Research (Aware) dispute to be responsible members of civil society.
Aware's mission statement stipulates that it seeks to 'identify areas for improvement in gender equality, encourage positive change and support women in realising their highest potential'. It is thus clear that Aware's moral mission and area of expertise lie in promoting the welfare of women in Singapore, and its leadership, 'old guard' or 'new guard', should bear this clearly in mind.
The misuse of Aware as a vehicle to promote a liberal agenda beyond women's rights is unacceptable, as is an attempt to take over the organisation to push an opposing conservative or religious agenda.
Ethan Tan Boon Hua
Passive supporters galvanised into action
WHEN news about the takeover of the Association of Women for Action and Research (Aware) first broke, I was a little curious. Then, more information came to light and my curiosity became a deep-seated concern.
I am concerned that under the new leadership, Aware is moving towards being an organisation of exclusion. To me, Aware has always been an organisation of inclusion, one that fought for women's rights and helped all women - in whatever shape or form.
The work of Aware has brought about significant changes to the lives of Singapore women - women who may not be members, but enjoy the fruits of the labour of its founding and veteran members.
