In the sixth episode of our podcast, we chat with Clement Tan, spokesperson for Pink Dot SG. We want to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community in Singapore and how to ally with them.
About our guest – Clement Tan
Clement Tan has been the spokesperson for Pink Dot SG since 2019. The non-profit movement, which was founded in 2009, advocates for LGBTQ+ equality and an open, inclusive society within Singapore. He is also involved in the Ready4Repeal movement as a community organiser.
Key points we covered in this episode to take a listen to…
02:40 – LGBTQ+, sexual orientation, gender identity, pronouns… what do these terms mean? Ange got Clement to unravel (and detangle) their definitions, and why it’s vital for us to know and understand them.
05:28 – Is coming out still relevant (and necessary)? Clement shares his take on this question and his coming out story. He also offers an alternative version of coming out, which Ange loves. She asks how parents can play a part if their children come out to them, and what the appropriate response should be.
16:15 – When should parents talk to their kids about the LGBTQ+ community? Clement advises there are age-appropriate ways to explain to them about the community. “The kids are alright, really.” He then touches on the misconceptions about the community and challenges they still face today, and what society can do to be better allies.
27:20 – What’s next for the LGBTQ+ community in Singapore now that Section 377A is officially repealed?
Want to know more? Check out these resources…
As staunch allies of the LGBTQ+ community, we’ve written plenty about them. Read up on same-sex mums and dads living and raising kids in Singapore, coming out stories, and resources for parents in Singapore. Speaking of resources, be updated with the terminology the community uses and how to talk to kids about gender identity. You can also check out queer books to read and watch animated series with LGBTQ+ representation.
Are you an LGBTQ+ person or have a loved one who is? Or simply want to find out more about the community? There are many resources and community groups committed to supporting you in your journey. Check out the Congregaytion portal for a list of:
- Educational resources and publications about the LGBTQ+ life and health;
- Resources for parents and families, including “I’ll Walk With You” (a guide for parents of transgender children;
- Community groups run by and for members of Singapore’s LGBTQ+ community; and
- Professional organisations for counselling and healthcare services, and other services commonly accessed by the LGBTQ+ community.
Everyone has a right to informative, comprehensive, inclusive sex education, but chances are that’s not what your kid’s receiving in Singapore. Check out Aware’s online portal Sex Ed, Declassified.
Watch this space for Episode 7, dropping next week!