tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18558844760478998352012-02-16T17:12:40.188+08:00The official blog for SAFE Singapore - Supporting, Affirming and Empowering our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning friends and familiesSAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comBlogger701100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-21313365568480607362011-05-18T07:43:00.003+08:002011-05-18T07:50:32.381+08:00

SAFE Singapore supportsTHE FREEDOM TO LOVE... and be lovedhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrIB5Ojbqns&feature=player_embeddedCome and meet SAFE and our supporters on June 18 at this year's PINK DOT!

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-37390417367664681122011-04-18T22:10:00.005+08:002011-04-26T10:29:18.626+08:00

Do you know and love a gay or lesbian person?Have you ever wondered yourself what the Bible might actually say about being gay or lesbian?How can Christians who uphold the importance of Scripture for their belief and faith understand, and reconcile homosexuality and Christianity? This 6-week course of study and discussions is targeted at helping family and friends of lesbian, gay and bisexual

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-56683590836584927162010-12-27T09:53:00.002+08:002010-12-27T09:56:44.030+08:00

Wishing everyone a better New Year ahead - and it will get better!Just tune in and hear it from our friends at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_GxgNg7f1wThe SAFE Singapore team

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-88174195364797797892010-11-17T11:31:00.001+08:002010-11-17T11:31:44.506+08:00

'Mama Wu' unlikely hero for homosexuals in ChinaBy Steven Jiang, CNNSTORY HIGHLIGHTS * 'Mama Wu' has earned fame by publicly defending her homosexual son * Homosexuals face deep cultural prejudices and pressure to marry * About 30 percent of Chinese homosexuals have attempted suicide * Although not illegal, homosexual venues regularly shut down in ChinaBeijing, China (CNN) -- When Wu

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-71062396324469017132010-06-01T23:52:00.000+08:002010-06-03T23:55:17.112+08:00

Event: PPC and SAFE presents: Journeys - The road to acceptance.Date: 5 June 2010 (Sat)Time: 4pmVenue: Pelangi Pride CentreCost per person: $6 (cost of 2 soft drinks and finger food)RSVP: This event is by invitation only.As there are LIMITED seats, prior registration is required.To get an invitation - please email [pelangipridecentre at yahoo dot com] withyour name (in full), contact number, the

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-68990630499287265652010-05-01T21:59:00.003+08:002010-05-01T22:06:15.856+08:00

== NEWS FLASH ==Pink Dot: Singapore celebrates the Freedom to Love with Pink Dot on 15 May 2010 at Hong Lim ParkPink Dot organisers say that this year's Pink Dot event -"honours kinship and family –in support and in recognition of our parents, siblings, relatives and friends of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Singaporeans.Growing up gay is never easy. But it is through the

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-70059051278870842102010-02-04T21:56:00.003+08:002010-02-04T22:02:30.993+08:00

We came across this recent piece on Fridae’s website that is timely as Chinese New Year approaches and as we focus on the family during the festivities. I am sure our friends at Fridae will not mind if we were to reproduce this here for our SAFE readers. It is a powerful reminder of the true Focus on the Family – the focus on love, honesty, open communication and mutual respect. SAFE wishes all

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-37553017429725395952009-10-22T07:28:00.004+08:002009-10-22T07:39:13.844+08:00

Excerpts from US President Obama's remarks atthe Human Rights Campaign (HRC) dinnerOctober 10, 2009Washington D.C.... For nearly 30 years, you've advocated on behalf of those without a voice. That's not easy. For despite the real gains that we've made, there's still laws to change and there's still hearts to open. There are still fellow citizens, perhaps neighbors, even loved ones -- good and

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-19287889656301859342009-04-25T14:39:00.003+08:002009-04-25T14:47:27.463+08:00

This letter was sent to the Forum Editor on 21 April 2009................................Dear ST Forum Editor,We at SAFE, read with sadness, the recents reports on the events at AWARE that reinforce the homophobia that exists in our society.Myths can be powerful in their control over our lives. The myth of the heterosexual family as it is spun in culture and society, excludes many people,

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-37490057400400703882009-03-03T22:23:00.000+08:002009-03-03T22:24:19.924+08:00

Dear ParentsIf your child has recently disclosed his/her sexual orientation to you, try to understand the motivation. More often than not, your child wants to include you in his or her life more fully than before. Your child has acted courageously in telling you what has been secret and very difficult to reveal. That act alone is worthy of your respect.Though you may have the wisdom of years of

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-36762417866098602802008-12-08T13:00:00.009+08:002009-03-03T22:31:04.698+08:00

**************** The SAFE team wishes one and allHAPPY HOLIDAYS!!

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-28580882533712307702008-10-20T21:54:00.003+08:002008-10-20T22:07:09.997+08:00

Transsexuals: More understanding needed12 Sep 2008Home>ST Forum>Online StoryKUDOS to the transsexuals in Mr Wong Kim Hoh's Special Report last Saturday, 'When Papa became Mama'. Having had enough just trying to understand themselves, they have come forward to help the rest of us understand our problem with them. And indeed the problem lies with us.I read with sadness of the rejection,

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-12993009771740256512008-08-17T22:07:00.002+08:002008-08-17T22:32:35.702+08:00

They tell us parenting today is an art, as much as it is a skill. We may not always know what to do as parents, but we know we should always listen to our hearts. And at the heart of most parents is the capacity to love and truly appreciate the unique identities of our children.The challenge to parents should not be whether to love our gay or lesbian child, but how. Our child will need us and

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-11082583082301865392007-12-08T12:25:00.000+08:002007-12-08T14:35:38.409+08:00

Come join us as we celebrate our first year at the Pelangi Pride Centre LGBTQ Community FairDate: Saturday 8 Dec 2007Time: 4pm - 7pmVenue: MOX Bar and Cafe, 21 Tanjong Pagar Road (4th floor)Admission: Free, by registration only.

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-87658297991033400822007-07-19T17:54:00.000+08:002007-07-25T18:23:41.741+08:00

SAFE has been busy these last few weeks, keeping up with the ongoing debate that has appeared in the press with regards to repealing Section 377A of the Penal Code.Click on the links to view some of the articles and letters, including our own statement.Can mum, mum and kids make a family?SAFE's letter in response to Janadas Devan's articleLet's debate without prejudice, judgment or condemnationMP

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-85174044988415368312007-07-16T17:18:00.000+08:002007-07-19T17:21:33.772+08:00

The Straits Times, July 16, 2007MP Baey all for repealing anti-gay lawBy Jeremy Au YongA PEOPLE'S Action Party MP yesterday spoke out against then non-review of the law banning homosexual sex.Tanjong Pagar GRC MP Baey Yam Keng said if it comes to a vote in Parliament, he would say 'yes' to doing away with the law which makes it illegal for men to have sex with other men.He was joined by Nominated

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-61310690732130432912007-07-13T17:29:00.000+08:002007-07-19T17:43:17.895+08:00

Anthony Yeo, a SAFE supporter, wrote this letter to the Straits Times's online forum in response to an earlier article 'Can mum, mum and kids make a family?'We have reprinted his published letter here....The Straits Times Online Forum, July 13, 2007 Let's debate without prejudice, judgment or condemnationMR JANADAS Devan made a very bold attempt in exploring the issues pertaining to same-sex

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-82609346190844285232007-07-09T17:51:00.000+08:002007-07-19T17:53:47.718+08:00

The following letter was sent to The Straits Times online forum. It was not published. We have reprinted the letter in full here....We refer to the article, "Can mum, mum and kids make a family?" by Janadas Devan, on 7 July 2007.We commend Mr. Devan as he has so clearly pointed out that families can and are made up of different combinations of adults and children. At SAFE (Supporting, Affirming

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-89522516490104256592007-07-07T19:22:00.000+08:002007-07-19T17:15:03.048+08:00

The Straits Times - Thinking Aloud, July 7, 2007 Can mum, mum and kids make a family?By Janadas DevanI HAVE a good friend who is a lesbian. She believes she was born one, not having experienced any heterosexual inclinations since she became sexually conscious in puberty.My friend has a partner. They are not legally married, since the state they live in in the United States does not recognise gay

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-70743081496368561192007-06-09T01:39:00.000+08:002007-06-09T01:35:00.163+08:00

This is a repost:Saturday, 9 June 20074 - 6 pmPelangi Pride Centre @ Bianco21 Tanjong Pagar Road #04-01* Do you want to know more about homosexuality?* Do you have a gay or lesbian child/family member and want more information but don't know where to find it or how?* What is this "gay lifestyle" that people tell you about?Come to 'a community affair' organized by SAFE and Pelangi Pride Centre,

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-15447387833523880582007-06-02T17:43:00.000+08:002007-06-02T17:44:47.078+08:00

The following is SAFE's letter in support of AWARE's premiere screening of the film Spider Lilies. The letter was sent to TODAY, but was not published......Dear EditorWe refer to Mr Geoffrey Yeoh’s letter of 25 May 2007 “Women’s group support of lesbian lifestyle upsetting”.SAFE is a group of family and friends who affirm and support gay and transgendered people as persons with equal rights to

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-16732758367872107112007-05-09T22:57:00.000+08:002007-05-09T23:51:10.220+08:00

Associate Professor Victor Ramraj has written a well-argued, intellectually sound, balanced piece, "The freedom to disagree, respectfully", in the Straits Times Review, May 8, 2007. We agree with him that some of the points raised in an earlier article by Ms Yvonne CL Lee were more opinion than fact.It is very encouraging that Prof Ramraj supports having healthy, serious dialogues on important

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-40823037432642227612007-05-07T23:24:00.000+08:002007-05-09T23:40:11.574+08:00

The following was written by Dr Khoo Hoon Eng, as a response to Yvonne Lee's Review article for The Straits Times 'Decriminalising homosexual acts would be an error', published on May 4, 2007. These are Dr Khoo's personal views....I am writing in response to Ms. Yvonne C. L. Lee's article, "Decriminalising homosexual acts would be an error," published May 4, 2007. Despite being written by an

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-47429327713583299392007-05-01T13:46:00.000+08:002007-05-01T15:41:53.120+08:00

The following appeared in The Straits Times' Forum page and ST Online on 1 May 2007. The original letter was sent with all of our founding members' signatures, in addition to Susan's. (In their exchange with Susan, The Straits Times said they would only print one.) The letter was also edited by The Straits Times for publication.If you would like to show your support for our letter, you may sign

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-51557154886414440042007-04-27T13:37:00.000+08:002007-04-27T13:48:22.362+08:00

Below is a SAFE press release in response to Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew's comments on homosexuality and the Penal Code, as reported in a recent Reuters article....PRESS RELEASE27 April 2007SAFE is a group of family and friends who affirm and support gay and transgendered people as persons with equal rights to respect, dignity, acceptance and empowerment in society.We are writing to express our

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-81994091732776290332007-04-18T16:11:00.000+08:002007-04-19T12:05:01.446+08:00

SAFE Singapore presents 'We Are Family - Conversations with Family and Friends'Saturday 28 April 2007, 3 - 5pmPelangi Pride Centre @ Bianco21 Tanjong Pagar Road #04-01Free entry, by invitation/registration only *Note to all guests: An appointed photographer/videographer will be present to record the event for archival purposes.As a courtesy to other guests and our speakers, unauthorised

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-67041386361077222252007-04-05T17:21:00.000+08:002007-04-05T17:34:01.546+08:00

The following text was taken from the Straits Times Online edition. Bolding done by SAFE Admin....April 5, 2007PROPOSED CHANGES TO PENAL CODELaw Society: Give judges leeway to set aside death penaltyIt also wants homosexual acts among consenting men decriminalisedBy K.C. VijayanTHE Law Society wants the mandatory death penalty for crimes such as murder, drug trafficking and firearms-related

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-40457526682718732022007-03-17T01:05:00.000+08:002007-03-17T01:12:35.905+08:00

SAFE's response to the feedback given by The National Council of Churches (NCCS) on the proposed amendments to the Penal Code.SAFE is a group of family and friends who affirm and support gay and transgendered people as persons with equal rights to respect, dignity, acceptance and empowerment in society.SAFE is appalled at the NCCS's view that, not only should criminalisation of men who engage in

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-28260452063970143042007-03-13T14:55:00.000+08:002007-03-13T14:58:23.936+08:00

We're in the middle of updating some of our links and articles. We hope to have some new resources and articles for you soon. Thank you for your patience.- The SAFE team

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-621519268477652242007-02-13T23:51:00.000+08:002007-02-13T14:24:16.767+08:00

This February brings us two special occasions to be with the people we love the most - the Lunar New Year holidays and Valentine's Day.For Chinese families, Lunar New Year is a time to reunite and strengthen ties through festive food and home visits. For couples and friends, Valentine's Day is a day where gifts of love and appreciation are exchanged.While not all of us may be observing the

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-63230198647278378902007-02-12T15:21:00.000+08:002007-02-12T15:46:36.683+08:00

The following was first published in SQ21, a collection of stories written by local author Ng Yi-Sheng. The stories, all written from a first-person point of view, are based on interviews Yi-Sheng conducted with members of the LGBT community and their supporters. Hoon Eng's story appears in Chapter 14."I have two sons. They’re 24 and 21 years old. Yes, you can print their names: Shin Ming and

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-77224763634248296322007-02-12T15:07:00.000+08:002007-02-13T14:07:55.663+08:00

Clarence Singam is a counseling psychologist with Oogachaga, a charitable pro-people pro-family sexuality-affirming counseling and support group agency. This is an extract of an article he wrote on coming out."I still remember when Han and I first got together and moved in to a tiny apartment in Club Street. I had told mum that I was moving in with a friend and that the apartment was tiny. She

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-9466489147466079372007-02-11T23:09:00.000+08:002007-02-13T14:10:28.357+08:00

The following is Alphonsus Lee's account of his experience attending the Safehaven Lunar New Year reunion dinner with his father. The first thought that went through my mind as I saw my father cross both his arms and his legs while he sat at the table was that it was going to be a long night. His discomfort at being in the company of gay men and women was clearly evident. While I know him to be a

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-48459749345476001812007-01-09T23:04:00.000+08:002007-01-11T15:23:30.337+08:00

Hello, and a Happy New Year to all our visitors, readers, and supporters. We hope that the days ahead be good ones, filled with peace and health for you and your family.Our first article for the new year comes from Father Albert Renckens, who alerted us to a piece he wrote for the Catholic News. Entitled 'Are homosexuals welcome in the Catholic Church?', it is the first of a two-part reflection

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-51779025286931681852007-01-09T09:44:00.000+08:002007-01-10T10:15:55.021+08:00

The following interview was first published on Plume on 11 Dec, 2006. Plume stands for People Like You and Me, and is a platform that highlights the thoughts and reflections of LGBT youth. It hopes to foster the growth of an LGBT youth community in Singapore, and in doing so, provide support and resources for queer youth.We thank Zee, the author, for helping spread the word about SAFE, and his

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-80373295597548296142007-01-07T22:50:00.000+08:002007-01-11T15:21:57.038+08:00

The following article was first published in the Catholic News on 7 Jan, 2007. We have reprinted it here with permission from Father Albert Renckens, the author. Please let us know what you think of this article at safesingapore[at]gmail.comSome Catholic homosexuals in Singapore have the impression that they are not welcome in our church and, consequently, they have left us for some other church,

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-20973874067134292082006-12-11T18:35:00.000+08:002006-12-18T23:41:34.422+08:00

SAFE launched its website on 9 Dec, at Pelangi Pride Centre's Community Fair. The invitation-only event at Mox Bar was attended by some 250 guests, comprised of parents, relatives, friends, well-wishers, volunteers and members of the various LGBTQ community groups.We are grateful to Pelangi Pride Centre for organizing the fair and inviting SAFE to be a part of it, especially to Eileena Lee and

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-41463442775285139652006-12-11T18:20:00.000+08:002006-12-12T11:06:04.595+08:00

Here are some of the photos taken at the launch of the SAFE website on 9 Dec 2006, at Pelangi Pride Centre. Watch this space for more photo updates, coming soon.We thank Pelangi Pride Centre for their permission to publish the above photographs.Copyright of the above photographs belong to Pelangi Pride Centre. Please do not copy or reproduce these photos in any form, or for personal use, without

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-50203786795296709172006-12-11T18:18:00.000+08:002006-12-11T18:23:40.804+08:00

[Photo courtesy of Pelangi Pride Centre]"Thank you for inviting me, as well as my mother (Christine Suchen Lim), to the launch of SAFE – Supporting, Affirming & Empowering our LGBTQ friends and family.My mother, Suchen, is definitely, definitely, more religious than I am...For, I am a criminal.For those of you who are aware, Penal Code Section 377A, which criminalizes gross indecency between men

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-87045443447819886532006-12-11T18:08:00.000+08:002006-12-18T23:41:08.973+08:00

[Photo courtesy of Pelangi Pride Centre]"Congratulations and a BIG Thank You to the founders of SAFE. You asked me for support of your work. I in turn thank you from the bottom of my heart for doing this.At this juncture in our social history, when many major religions dare not and will not be inclusive, then it is time for lay people to show the so-called religious leaders what it means to

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-5574338220811961172006-12-11T18:00:00.000+08:002006-12-11T18:06:52.763+08:00

[Photo courtesy of Alex Au]"Before I became President of AWARE, Hoon Eng had suggested that AWARE host a gay-affirmative forum. It was supposed to be on Valentine’s Day, to explore the different kinds of love, or rather, the different expressions of love.Lack of time and clashing schedules meant that I “inherited” the project, which was eventually called the Mothers’ Day Forum. It was even

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-90069565231210599962006-12-11T17:37:00.000+08:002006-12-11T17:56:46.986+08:00

[Photo: Pelangi Pride Centre]"This is such an exciting day for me. I want to thank Mox Bar and Café for allowing us to be here, to Eileena (Lee) for arranging this event and all of you for coming to share it with us.10 years ago, I would not have been able to imagine the day would come when I could stand here and talk about the launch of a website for the support group for parents, family and

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-53233205235443323312006-12-11T17:25:00.000+08:002006-12-11T23:43:22.202+08:00

[Photo courtesy of Pelangi Pride Centre]"I hope to bring to SAFE a religious perspective, not because I’m super-religious, but because sad to say, my Christian faith contributes one of the loudest and strongest voice of condemnation of LGBTQ people. To me, to accuse gay people of sin just because they love someone of the same sex, violates the very message of the Gospel, that of equality,

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-76815356673020342212006-12-08T16:47:00.000+08:002006-12-09T10:39:54.729+08:00

Spending the holiday season with family and friends can sometimes be a stressful time. Here are some tips we found and adapted from the PFLAG website that may help you get through it.If you are a friend or family member of someone gay...- Set up support for yourself. It is important to realize you are not alone. If you need assistance or information, get in touch with someone at SAFE.- Take your

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-16617699269700968472006-12-07T17:43:00.000+08:002006-12-07T18:13:32.560+08:00

Look out for SAFE Singapore, a new support group for straight family and friends of GLBT people with an upcoming website launch on Saturday, Dec 9 at Mox Bar. Fridae talks to Dr Khoo Hoon Eng, a co-founder of the group and a supportive mother of two gay sons.Article by Ng Yi-Sheng, Fridae.com, Dec 7, 2006It's never easy for a parent to hear a child say the words, "I'm gay." Even liberal parents

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-10394640227638584402006-11-22T15:09:00.000+08:002006-11-22T17:14:32.063+08:00

Spending the holiday season with family and friends can sometimes be a stressful time. Here are some tips we found and adapted from the PFLAG website that may help you get through it.If you are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender...- Don’t assume you know how somebody will react to news of your sexual orientation or gender identity - you may be surprised.- Realize that your family’s reaction to

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-13921396778128503692006-11-22T14:11:00.001+08:002006-11-22T14:13:48.989+08:00

Homophobic attitudes can impact upon anyone who:- is, or is perceived to be, lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender/transsexual- has friends, family or colleagues who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender/transsexual- does not conform to stereotypical views of masculine or feminine behaviourHomophobia can happen anywhere: at home, at work, at school, at university, in the pub, on holiday,

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-84153405168563023582006-11-22T13:48:00.000+08:002006-11-22T14:03:55.617+08:00

The following is an essay that appeared on 20 July, 2005 on Tolerance.org. The author of the essay was only identified as "Mae, age 16", who expressed her disappointment over pervasive homophobia in her school, and the frustration of having a different viewpoint. While SAFE cannot verify the identity of Mae and the contents of her essay, we felt it was a well-written essay with an important

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-9261085881109179342006-11-22T13:23:00.000+08:002006-11-22T13:25:33.689+08:00

It’s not being gay that makes some young people unhappy. It’s the negative reaction of other people that they fear, coming to terms with being ‘different’ and coping with it that’s difficult. It is even harder if this has to be done in secrecy from family, friends and teachers.Lesbian and gay people of all ages can find themselves emotionally exhausted by having to reconcile how they are feeling

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-46485457195304155342006-11-22T13:06:00.000+08:002006-11-23T01:11:57.404+08:00

Who gets homophobically bullied or harassed?Anyone can become a victim of homophobic bullying or harassment.- Teenagers who have misjudged their best friend by confiding in them only to find themselves "outed" are the principal targets of this form of bullying.- Heterosexual girls and boys who others think of as lesbian or gay can come under similar attack. Most young people taunted about their

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-71168444977570318972006-11-22T12:34:00.000+08:002007-01-10T14:34:03.838+08:00

What is homophobic bullying or harassment?Just like any form of bullying or harassment, homophobia can include verbal, physical and emotional abuse by an individual or group but it's directed specifically at someone who is lesbian or gay or thought to be by others. What makes it different from other forms of bullying or harassment is the personal motivation that drives it.Most homophobic bullying

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-88749490427253126172006-11-15T14:53:00.000+08:002006-11-23T01:14:17.231+08:00

Frequently asked questions about homophobiaWhat is homophobia?Sometimes people who object to gay people are called homophobic. Homophobia is a fear of and/or hostility towards gay people or homosexuality. Homophobia is often expressed visibly, audibly and sometimes violently.Why do some people behave badly towards gays?Although people often grow up exposed to more or less the same beliefs about

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-43160642891901916952006-11-15T10:43:00.000+08:002006-11-23T01:16:14.867+08:00

An attitude test on homophobia One of the main reasons that gays and lesbians find it hard to tell us about their sexuality is often because of our attitude towards homosexual people.We may not think we have a homophobic attitude but maybe we say or do things that make us look like we do.We often send off signals that we will not accept them

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-46001478080926076772006-11-13T17:24:00.000+08:002006-11-22T17:30:08.297+08:00

SAFE Singapore has sent out the following Statement to our Press and Media contacts in Singapore. The Government has asked for public feedback on the proposed changes to the Penal Code and it would be very helpful if you could write in to the feedback unit, identifying yourself as a straight ally, Feedback link: reach.gov.sgThank you one and all for your continued encouragement and support!------

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-34775605882175863332006-10-30T17:47:00.000+08:002006-11-22T13:15:45.861+08:00

Overcoming the initial shock:Frequently Asked Questions for parents of gay personsIt is often a shock for parents to find out that their child is gay. Whether you are a mother or a father, whether you have a son or a daughter, whether you long long suspected something of the kind, or were completely surprised, finding out for sure can be a shock. The initial feelings are strong and confusing, and

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-51131875509782900182006-10-30T13:23:00.000+08:002006-12-15T18:43:11.152+08:00

Activity groups and resources available to LGBTQs in SingaporeGeneral ResourcesPelangi Pride Centre• community space and resource library• opens every Saturday from 4-8pm• runs activities such as workshops and talks, every 2nd Saturday of the month.Address: Mox Bar & Café, 21 Tanjong Pagar Road #04-01, Singapore 088444Website: www.pelangipridecentre.orgEmail: contact[at]

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-39235412521994172672006-10-30T13:14:00.000+08:002006-12-07T11:06:41.705+08:00

What do you do if your friend says to you:“ Do you remember the thing that I wanted to tell you the other day? Well *sigh* do you still want to know? I don't know if it’s a good idea to tell you.*breathe deeply*I’m gay. And yes, I can’t do anything about it. Okay, are you still there? Good, I had to tell you one day. I couldn’t hide it from you anymore; it became too heavy a burden for me to

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-9038721620087577902006-10-22T21:59:00.000+08:002006-11-23T01:19:11.095+08:00

Understanding what LGBTQ and other terms meanLGBTQ is an abbreviation we at SAFE use to refer to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning people.Below is a glossary of terms you might come across when speaking to a LGBTQ person, or reading up on matters concerning LGBTQ persons. Do note that while some of the descriptions may fit a person you know, he or she may not necessarily

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-53446253800012043442006-10-22T18:01:00.000+08:002006-11-23T01:19:52.925+08:00

The truth is being lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender does not give you AIDS. Certain sexual practices, certain drug use behaviors and other factors can put you at risk for catching HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, as well as other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).HIV is spread by sexual contact with an infected person, by sharing needles and/or syringes (for drug injection) with someone

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-12870747922753775182006-10-22T17:49:00.000+08:002006-11-22T17:53:35.638+08:00

Part of understanding LGBTQ persons is understanding issues of sexual identity and orientation. Here are a few frequently asked questions: What is sexual identity and sexual orientation? Sexual identity is the degree to which one identifies with the social and biological aspects of being a man or a woman. Most people identify primarily with their biological sex but transgendered people identify

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-79328674274419768382006-10-22T17:44:00.000+08:002006-11-22T17:46:48.353+08:00

Why should I support gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people? All people, including our gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender loved ones deserve love, support and full acceptance in society. Because the LBGTQ community still faces discrimination in today’s society, many of them think they have no choice but to struggle with their sexual orientation alone. The common myths and stereotypes

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-63509657964675111732006-10-22T14:45:00.000+08:002006-12-19T00:09:05.499+08:00

We would like to thank our many supporters for their encouragement. Among them -Chia Kwok YingAudrey ChuaKoh Hee ChooSuchen Christine LimSally TanGeorge TayJuliana TohAgnes WeeYap Kim HaoAnthony YeoYiap Geok KhuanSAFE encourages all with LGBTQ family and friends to stand up and join us in our work. By being open about yourself and your family you are already helping to dispel misinformation and

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-37524278741356279252006-10-22T14:18:00.000+08:002006-11-22T14:19:34.691+08:00

We are currently compiling a list of FAQs and resources.Thank you for your patience.

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-62385704422123030822006-10-22T14:16:00.000+08:002006-11-22T14:18:04.974+08:00

We are currently compiling a list of FAQs and resources. Thank you for your patience.

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-51088722797289303402006-10-01T20:06:00.000+08:002006-12-07T20:35:55.375+08:00

Care has been taken in the compilation of this web site. The statements contained on this site are believed to be correct, based on our members' own readings, experiences, and direct contact with LGBTQ persons. However, our opinions and statements are not intended to replace the advice or treatment by professional medical or mental healthcare providers. SAFE shall not be liable for any loss,

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-59945594439634335092006-10-01T18:17:00.000+08:002006-12-07T19:58:01.996+08:00

Information about our website:We hope the following will answer some of the frequently asked questions about our website. If you do have other questions, please forward them to us at safesingapore[at]gmail.comPlease understand that we handle lots of emails everyday. Because SAFE is run entirely by volunteers who are also committed to other work, we may not be able to respond immediately. We do,

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-7607943140134408392006-10-01T12:10:00.000+08:002006-11-15T12:12:36.056+08:00

SAFE was born appropriately, at a Mother’s Day Forum titled “Unconditional Love” held on 7 May 2006 by AWARE (Association of Women for Action and Research) Singapore. It was an afternoon spent sharing stories of unconditional love and celebrating the voices of mothers who love against all odds, stories that spoke of the power of a mother’s love in the face of negative societal stigmatization of

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-74507576281015915072006-10-01T11:52:00.000+08:002006-11-23T01:22:22.150+08:00

Our mission is to form a network of support, affirmation and empowerment for families and friends of LGBTQ persons by providing information and resources and encouraging dialogue that promotes respect for human diversity and the well-being of all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning persons.

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-47362725806078879472006-10-01T11:06:00.000+08:002006-11-22T16:21:25.791+08:00

We are parents, families and friends of LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning) persons, who believe in a society that accepts, affirms and empowers everyone to participate fully in it, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.The SAFE Team:- Khoo Hoon Eng- Tan Joo Hymn- Ong Su-Chzeng- Susan Tang

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1855884476047899835.post-45767647136237430262006-09-03T17:33:00.000+08:002006-11-22T17:39:38.043+08:00

Support group started for those with gay childrenby Sarah Ng, The Straits Times, Sep 3, 2006When her 15-year-old son told her that he was gay, Dr Khoo Hoon Eng wished she had guidance from other parents in similar situations.Now, 10 years later, she is starting an online support group for parents with gay children, providing a platform for them to share their stories, understand homosexuality

SAFE Adminhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12637964550129054735noreply@blogger.com