Thank you for making Pink Dot 2012 happen. Thank you for supporting the freedom to love.

For those who have been here more than once, thank you for constantly supporting us and believing in what we believe as well. As for those who were here for the first time yesterday, we were glad to see you and hope to see you at next year’s Pink Dot!

Pink Dot would like to thank all our corporate and individual contributors, ambassadors, performers, community groups, volunteers, food & beverage contributors and all others who have helped us in one way or another – without whom this night would never be possible.

Now that we’ve (sort of) recovered from the madness of this year’s awesome first Night Pink Dot – we’d like to share some beautiful behind-the-scenes photos taken by our wonderful photographers! /bring tears to my eyes

To a bigger and better … Read More »

We’d like to give a shout out to the special people who have supported Pink Dot with their heartfelt generosity! Thank you for making Pink Dot a heartwarming, happy-bellied party for all 15,000 people. Thank you for supporting the freedom to love.

Special thanks to Google and Barclays.

Many thanks to :

Positive Events, Fridae, The Gunnery, Share Tea, The Factory, Moojigay, Trevvy, Nando’s, Wok&Barrel, MARUAH, ZROOTE, Azmi Jaffar, Dave Kong, Gerald Tan, Wei Tan Hong Wui, Richard K F Ho, contributors who wish to remain anonymous, and a special contribution In remembrance of Emma Yong.

Last, but not least, we’d like to thank all our volunteers for dedicating their time and energy to setting up Pink Dot and making sure the event runs smoothly. Many hands make light work, and it’s such team work that makes Pink Dot a joy to create every … Read More »

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

First Night Pink Dot lights up Hong Lim Park

Fourth Pink Dot outshines previous records, with over 15,000 Singaporeans coming together in a dramatic spectacle of glowing torches, light sticks and mobile phones to celebrate the freedom to love

Singapore, June 30, 2012 – Tonight, over 15,000 Singaporeans turned Hong Lim Park into a sea of shimmering pink lights, for the first-ever night Pink Dot. For the fourth time since 2009, thousands of straight and LGBT Singaporeans came together to celebrate inclusiveness, diversity and the freedom to love, with the formation of a giant Pink Dot in Speakers’ Corner. This was a 50% increase over last year’s number, continuing a four year trend of growth.

An annual event that aims to raise awareness and foster deeper understanding of the basic human need to love and … Read More »

It’s the people that make a home. Since last year, Pink Dot has welcomed LGBT-friendly groups in Singapore to Hong Lim Park to make one big happy family. This Saturday, we have 19 societies gathered under one roof. Most of these groups are run by volunteers who give their time and energy to making the world a better, warmer place. Meet them, say hello – and give them a big ol’ hug for being such wonderful people.

5Degrees

Founded in 2008, 5Degrees is a not-for-profit networking group for LGBTQ professionals to network, exchange ideas and tap into potential career and business opportunities. Through regular workshops, networking sessions and discussion groups, 5Degrees seeks to nurture a conducive business environment for LGBTQ-friendly individuals, organisations and enterprises. 5Degrees also organizes special projects and charity initiatives in aid of the LGBTQ community.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/5Degrees

Action for AIDS

Action for AIDS aims … Read More »

by Ho Kwon Ping

The words “some day” resonate with many people of my generation. They were the final words of the refrain from the song “We Shall Overcome” which marked the civil rights movement of America in the 1960’s and ‘70s. As a wide-eyed freshman in the US I attended student rallies and demonstrations, and I still recall the poignant, hopeful idealism of many young people, black and white, as they sang, arms linked and waiting for that “some day”.

For my parents’ generation, “some day” was a longing for a future when they would control their own destinies free from colonial masters; for freedom from poverty, hunger, illiteracy. The PAP when it came to power delivered on all its promises – and more – and “some day” became today. Basic civil rights – equality of gender, race, and religion … Read More »

All set for Pink Dot next Saturday? The team has drawn up a nifty guide to making your very own pink torch!

1. With white LED torch light
LED torchlights can be bought at places like Daiso, Army Market, Home-Fix, NTUC, 7-11, etc.

Pink cellophane paper can be bought at stationery shops like Popular ($1.80), Art Friend, Spotlight, etc. Remember to check that the light created by the cellophane paper is really pink, by testing with your phone’s LED light or by bringing your torchlight along.

Either cut a small piece of cellophane paper and wrap it around the torchlight with a rubber band.

Test the torchlight by shining it on white surface. Try not to look into it as it may hurt your eyes.

2. LED light of mobile phones
Download an app that allows the LED light to be turned on manually. For … Read More »

by Alan Tan

Truth be told, I used to join in the safety of the crowd and scoff at the gay community in high school. Indeed, I was homophobic.

Looking back, it is not difficult to explain my fears. My phobia probably came from the worry of being ostracised by others. I did not want to be associated with gay people as they are constantly insulted, bullied, and are segregated in literally any society. As I was approaching senior year in high school, I was balloted to work with a gay man for a project. I was furious, dismayed, and felt like the most unfortunate heterosexual human being in the world who had just lost his honour and pride. My body language mirrored my feelings, and he got the message clearly. I hated him and his way of life.

Yet, as … Read More »

We whooped for joy when we found out earlier this year that corporate giants like Barclays were going to stand up for and stand behind Pink Dot, which campaigns for the freedom to love, regardless of sexual orientation. Perhaps, just perhaps, we are striding towards a more inclusive, open, and loving society someday soon.

Barclays is proud to be a Corporate Contributor of this year’s Pink Dot Singapore. Recognizing the importance of addressing Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgender (LGBT) issues and challenges in the city, Pink Dot’s campaign to raise awareness for diversity, inclusiveness and acceptance is a mission that resonates with the values and culture within our organisation.

At Barclays, we are committed to being a leading champion of LGBT inclusion. We recognise the value of diversity and inclusion to our business and our employees. Diverse teams make better decisions … Read More »

Expect an exciting line-up of some of Singapore’s favourite celebrities at this year’s Pink Dot Concert! Held at Hong Lim Park on 30th June (mark your calendars!), join Singapore’s favourite bands, comedians, and singers at the first Pink Dot held at NIGHT!

Catch Kumar, Sharon Au, and Lim Yu-Beng, our lovely Pink Dot 2012 ambassadors, acoustic duo Jack & Rai, funnygirl Pam Oei, Ivan Heng & the va-va-voom La Cage aux Folles, King Kong Jane, Tang Quartet and Starlight Alchemy. Woohoo! Sounds like it’s going to be a power-packed evening.

The show will begin from 6.30pm to 7.30pm (come early, chope seat) and later, witness the formation of Pink Dot 2012, which will take place at sunset for the very first time. Shimmering torches, light sticks, and glowing mobile phones aglow!

See you there!

WHAT: PINK DOT CONCERT 2012
WHERE: Hong Lim Park
ADMISSION: Free
WHEN: Saturday, … Read More »

by Liew Kai Khiun

At the dawn of the millennium, Church of the Saviour in Singapore ran a banner outside their Queenstown premises that read “Homosexuals can Change”. Highly visible to the public, the statement underpinned the change from the traditionally quiet disapproval of what is construed as unnatural sexual identities and relationships towards a more active drive to “rehabilitate” those belonging to the LGBT community back to what is considered as the heterosexual mainstream.

While generally agnostic, I used to share the general prejudices against sexual minorities in Singapore, and had probably agreed with the underlying messages of the banner of Church of the Saviour on homosexuality a decade ago. Growing up in a typically heterosexual mainstream family, I was probably internalized to the aversion of any other types of alternative social relationships or ways of life.

Brought up with … Read More »

It is not “someday”, but today.

My best friend and her husband, both devout Christians, are happy now that their lesbian daughter (in her late thirties) has found a loving, supportive partner for life. Their daughter and her partner live with the partner’s family, and the couple visit and dine regularly with my friend and her husband, like any good, married daughter and her spouse.

A few months back, my former student took me out for lunch, and told me about his long-term partner, who is English. The two men, who work in the medical field, have been together for more than 12 years, and his good news is that their families have accepted their relationship. My former student’s family is Singaporean and Catholic, and his partner’s parents are English and Anglican. Since we were having a Japanese lunch, we toasted his … Read More »

Someday, the campaign video for Pink Dot 2012, draws a realistic portrait of some of the realities faced by Singapore’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. These are very real issues faced by Singaporeans in their workplaces, homes, and schools everyday.

1) At the Workplace

While no official survey has been done on the situation of LGBT people at the workplace, anecdotal accounts and documented cases indicate a wide range of attitudes – from open-minded environments in industries like entertainment and media, to growing acceptance in a few government agencies and multi-national corporations (MNCs), as well as continued discrimination in some government sectors.

In 2003, the Singapore Government announced that gay people are now allowed to work in ‘certain positions in government’. Companies are also growing in acceptance with many having global diversity policies applied to Singapore. For example, last year, Google … Read More »

‘Someday’
Director’s Note
By Boo Junfeng

Last year’s campaign video carried broader, more universal themes that spoke to anyone in the world who supported the Freedom to Love. This year, we wanted to bring it back home and depict some of the realities faced by Singapore’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

It is, admittedly, less of a celebration than last year’s video, specifically because it is meant to address some important and very real issues. As we celebrate the Freedom to Love every year at Pink Dot, it is important that we realise that many LGBT people continue to face prejudice and discrimination on a daily basis. There are elephants in the room (such as media censorship and Section 377A of the Penal Code) that we cannot ignore. We hope people will ponder these issues leading up to Pink Dot 2012.

As with … Read More »

For Immediate Release

2012 Campaign Video Envisions a Brighter ‘Someday’ for Singapore’s LGBT Community

Singapore, May 30, 2012 – Singapore will once again celebrate the Freedom to Love at the very first night Pink Dot on June 30, 2012 – and in keeping with its community engagement, Pink Dot Sg today released a landmark campaign video marking a key milestone in the lead up to the main event.

Directed by acclaimed Singaporean director Boo Junfeng, this year’s campaign video, dubbed ‘Someday’, invites Singaporeans to envision a future in which Singapore’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community will be able to openly celebrate their diversity, free of discrimination and prejudice.

The campaign video’s concept marks a subtle shift from past videos – all of which were also directed by Boo – and carried universally recognised themes packaged in a highly positive, bright and cheerful setting. … Read More »

Dearest Lady Gaga,

Welcome to Singapore!

We are Pink Dot Sg, a peaceful social movement that calls upon Singaporeans to support the Freedom to Love regardless of sexual orientation. Since our inception in 2009, we have called open minded Singaporeans to come out, dressed in pink to form a human pink dot – a symbol of acceptance of the LGBT community in Singapore. The yearly Pink Dot event has grown from 2,000 participants in 2009 to 10,000 in 2011, very significant numbers in strait-laced Singapore. This year, Pink Dot will take place on June 30.

Singaporeans “born this way” are far from being fully accepted by both government and society. Gay sex is still illegal, positive portrayal of LGBT persons is consistently censored in mainstream media, HIV prevention efforts are hampered by conservative sex education policies, LGBT persons are sidelined in jobs like … Read More »

“Someday…” is a series written by contributors, who pen their thoughts and hopes for a more open-minded society.

People and their sexuality can be classified with relative ease. First they’re divided into two camps – Either you’re straight, or you’re not.

If you’re not, that’s where the acronym LGBT comes in, efficient as a sorting hat, placing people into neat sub categories of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender.

Of these, bisexuals are the perhaps trickiest to categorise, because they are inclined to both genders. Some in the LGBT community regard them with some degree of suspicion, because they have the best of both worlds, they have all the options, and if they’re lucky, they never have to deal with the sticky process of coming out.

Throughout history, bisexual women have been ostracized by their Sapphic sisters for their romantic and physical relations with men. … Read More »

Pink Dot appreciates all feedback from our friends and supporters, and we are aware of the concerns
raised – especially with regards to the participation of foreigners at Pink Dot 2012. As we come closer
to our highly anticipated event (and working very hard to make it the best one yet), we thought it
would be useful to highlight some of the questions that have been raised:

Q: I have read online that only Singapore citizens and Permanent Residents are allowed to participate, is that true?

A: Hong Lim Park is an area that has been designated by the Singapore government to be the venue
for the Speakers Corner, the only venue in Singapore in which people can demonstrate, hold exhibitions and speak freely on most topics. The Speakers Corner, however, is still governed by a set of rules and regulations.

Under the administrative categories listed within the terms and … Read More »

What better way to spend the long Good Friday and Easter weekend than to spread some love? This was exactly what our ambassadors Sharon Au, Lim Yu-Beng and Kumar did – touring the various clubs over the weekend to share their support for the freedom to love.

It was a rollickin’ four nights at Play, Taboo, Butter Factory and Avalon for the ambassadors as they mingled with club-goers and shared their reasons for supporting Pink Dot 2012. The clubs were packed with clubbers and supporters who welcomed the news of the new sunset event, culminating in the formation of the first-ever Night Pink Dot.

After the launch of the Pink Dot Ambassadors’ Video 2012, Sharon, Yu-Beng, and Kumar hosted quizzes to give away some cuddly Pink Dot plushies! To all those who snapped up our cute plushies – a big THANK YOU! … Read More »

Save the Date for Singapore’s first-ever NIGHT Pink Dot 2012!

Singapore, April 6, 2012 – On June 30, 2012, Singaporeans will, for the fourth year running, gather at Hong Lim Park to form a human pink dot in support of the belief that everyone deserves the freedom to love, regardless their sexual orientation.
This year, organisers have planned something extra special – Pink Dot 2012 will take place at sunset, for the first time in its history culminating in the formation of a pink dot of shimmering torches, light sticks and glowing mobile phones, in the first hours of darkness.
“Having a Pink Dot formed at night makes for a dramatic message of inclusivity and acceptance – a celebration of unity in diversity that emphasises our shared belief in the Freedom to Love, “ said Pink Dot spokesperson Paerin Choa.

Pink Dot 2012 is also … Read More »

Pink Dot is back for 2012!

Last year, over 10,000 Singaporeans and PRs stood for the freedom to love, and be loved, regardless of one’s sexual orientation. This year, Pink Dot is made a little extra special – find out more this Easter weekend!

We will be premiering our Pink Dot 2012 Launch Video at the following parties, say hi!

Thursday 5 April
TwoQueens, Blushing Bunny Party @ PLAY

Friday 6 April
Play
Taboo

Saturday 7 April
MisMatch9, Spring Fling @ Butter Factory

Sunday 8 April
Avalon

Can you guess which Celebrity Ambassadors are making a stand for Pink Dot this year?

::

PINK DOT PLUSHIES

This little plushie charmed our socks off when it appeared in the Pink Dot 2011 video. Now you can take home a little piece of Pink Dot at its cutest and cuddliest. Proceeds will go towards fundraising for Pink Dot 2012. … Read More »

Read it here. Happy National Day, Singapore! We love you!

Life! Straits Times

A different breed of sponsors

Clarissa Oon, 23 June 2011

(c) 2011 Singapore Press Holdings Limited

Controversial groups here get funding support from companies Google and Man Investments

The Singapore branch of global Internet giant Google has lent its name to the annual Pink Dot gathering at Speaker’s Corner.

Read More »

We love Singapore!

Glad so many of you had a wonderful time yesterday. Here’s our video highlighting some of the best moments from Pink Dot 2011. Thank you for making this happen. Thank you for standing up for a more open and loving Singapore. Till a bigger and better Pink Dot next year!

* We’ve gotten some feedback about the balloon-releasing that happened this year – thank you. We’ll take extra care to remind everyone that balloons are not to be released during future Pink Dots.

Singapore, June 18, 2011 – Over 10,000 pink-attired Singaporeans turned Hong Lim Park into a sea of pink, where they gathered – for the third year running – to form a giant pink dot in a show of support for inclusiveness, diversity and the freedom to love. This breaks Pink Dot 2010’s previous record for the largest public gathering ever seen at the Speakers’ Corner since its opening in 2000, and is more than twice the number of people who turned up last year.This milestone event is organised by a group of local volunteers and aims to raise awareness and foster deeper understanding of the basic human need to love and be loved, regardless of one’s sexual orientation. Pink Dot 2011 aims to re-affirm the movement’s credo, Supporting the Freedom to Love, by encouraging Singaporeans to speak up for their … Read More »

At the pink dot formation every year, the crowd sings along to a song about love and friendship. This year, the Pink Dot song we’ve picked is I Want To Hold Your Hand by The Beatles. Hope you’re ready and PINK-ed up for Saturday! See you!

Lyrics:

I WANT TO HOLD YOUR HAND

Yeah I´ll tell you something
I think you’ll understand
When I say that something
I wanna hold your hand (3x)

Oh, please, say to me
You’ll let me be your man
and please, say to me
You’ll let me hold your hand
Now let me hold your hand
I wanna hold your hand
And when I touch you i feel
happy, inside
It’s such a feeling
That my love
I can’t hide (3x)

Yeah you, got that something
I think you’ll understand
When I say that something
I wanna hold your hand (3x)

And when I touch you I feel
happy, inside
It’s such a feeling
That my … Read More »

Thanks for all of your emails, tweets and blog and Facebook comments. We’re sorry we haven’t been able to reply to every message, but please know that we’re reading more than we’re typing. FOUR days to go and work’s been piling up! Anyway, here are responses to questions and concerns that seem to come up quite often… a sequel to our previous FAQ posting.

Q.

What if there’s wet weather – and flooding?

A.

It’s going to be a rain or shine event. Love is weatherproof (or at least we believe this to be true). That said; if weather conditions get mighty bad, we may call for a slight delay, rearrange the event flow or cancel some segments of the programme. All of our volunteers have been working very hard for the past … Read More »

Simply copy and paste these codes into your own blog or website to show your support for Pink Dot and the freedom to love. 

<a href=”http://pinkdot.sg/” target=”_blank”><img src=”http://pinkdot.sg/web_badges/pinkdot_badge.gif” alt=”The Freedom To Love” border=”0″ /></a>

<a href=”http://pinkdot.sg/” target=”_blank”><img src=”http://pinkdot.sg/web_badges/pinkdot_badge2.gif” alt=”The Freedom To Love” border=”0″ /></a>

<a href=”http://pinkdot.sg/” target=”_blank”><img src=”http://pinkdot.sg/web_badges/pinkdot_badge3.gif” alt=”The Freedom To Love” border=”0″ /></a>

<a href=”http://pinkdot.sg/” target=”_blank”><img src=”http://pinkdot.sg/web_badges/pinkdot_badge4.gif” alt=”The Freedom To Love” border=”0″ /></a>

We talk to the everyday heroes who make Singapore a better place person by person, day after day. These LGBT support groups will also have a booth (or a picnic mat) at Pink Dot 2011, so come by and say hi!
INDIGNATION

Who they are:

The Singapore Pride Season, the annual LGBT festival of Singapore

What they do:

To establish an annual platform for LGBT expression in forms of art, music, texts, films, talks and other forms discovered hereafter.

How to get in touch:

• Website : www.indignationsg.wordpress.com

• Email: pluadmin@gmail.com

[Snapshot]

IndigNation, the Singapore Pride Season, turns 7 this year. A social and artistic event, it engages with the mainstream public and raises awareness about LGBT culture in everyday life.

[Q&A]

Pink Dot speaks to the current programming director, Jun Zubillaga-Pow, and finds out more about his aspirations for the festival.

How did the idea for IndigNation come about?
The Pride season was … Read More »

We talk to the everyday heroes who make Singapore a better place person by person, day after day. These LGBT support groups will also have a booth (or a picnic mat) at Pink Dot 2011, so come by and say hi!

Who They Are:

Young Out Here aka YOH is a queer youth community group started back in 2006 by Elsa Tay, Jeremy Kwok and Benjamin Xue. It caters to queer youths between the ages of 16 to 22 and hopes to help queer youths build ties with the larger queer community.

What They Do:

YOH provides a safe and inclusive space which enables the youth to talk about queer youth specific topics and issues. The Support Group programme is composed of 13 sessions, focusing on topics like Coming Out, Family, School, Safer Sex, Relationships & Self.

How To Get In Touch:

Sign up … Read More »

We talk to the everyday heroes who make Singapore a better place person by person, day after day. These LGBT support groups will also have a booth (or a picnic mat) at Pink Dot 2011, so come by and say hi!
SINQSA (Singapore Queer-Straight Alliance)

Who They Are:A group that fosters understanding and support between the straight and queer communities that was set up in May 2008 by Sam Ho, Jean Chong and Jennifer Teo.

What They Do: Provide a space and network for like-minded and LGBT-supportive people to share their views.
How To Get In Touch: SinQSA Facebook

[Snapshot]

The Singapore Queer-Straight Alliance (SinQSA) is a forum to express support for equality regardless of sexual and gender orientation. Conversations happen a lot online, through their facebook page, where members freely share their thoughts on queer-straight unity and harmony with like-minded folks.

[Q&A]
We catch up with … Read More »

We talk to the everyday heroes who make Singapore a better place person by person, day after day. These LGBT support groups will also have a booth (or a picnic mat) at Pink Dot 2011, so come by and say hi!

Who they are:
A youth group that develops and organises social activities for young gay and bisexual men.

What they do:
Social events to raise awareness of the existence of young MSM and to promote their growth as individuals. Their tagline of “Self.Growth.Realise” is advocated and adhered to in all of their programs.

When was it set up:
June 2008

How to get in touch:

Website : sgrainbow.blogspot.com

Email: sgrainbow@gmail.com

[Snapshot]

SGRainbow is a non-profit independent activities-based social group for young gay and bisexual males aged 18 to 25. Its mission is to provide a platform – through social settings and activities – for gay and … Read More »

We talk to the everyday heroes who make Singapore a better place person by person, day after day. These LGBT support groups will also have a booth (or a picnic mat) at Pink Dot 2011, so come by and say hi!

Who They Are: Founded by six women in 2006, Sayoni is a volunteer-run social organisation for women in Singapore. Currently, they have about 50 to 70 volunteers.

What They Do: They organise public forums, educational talks, dinners, parties, focus groups, advocacy projects, sporting activities, yearly self-development camps overseas for queer women, dialogue sessions, newbie gatherings, training workshops and more.

How To Get In Touch: Website www.sayoni.com

[Snapshot]
A volunteer-run women’s group in Singapore, Sayoni regularly organises events like forums, talks, focus groups, newbie gathering and dinners for queer women in Singapore. They recently released a Coming Out guide, “What If I’m Gay?” and gather … Read More »

Free Pink Dot decals to giveaway! Put them up on your cars and shop windows and spread the love for Pink Dot 2011!

Pick them up at any of the following locations. Limited stocks available, so hurry!

Very Woonderland
Ion Orchard #B3-12
2 Orchard Turn, S238801

Actually
29A Seah Street, S188385
opening hours: Mon-Sat 12pm – 9pm | Sun 12pm – 7pm

Qafe
21 Tanjong Pagar Road, #01-01 S088444
opening hours:
Tue-Wed 5pm – 11pm | Thu-Sat 5pm – 3am
Sun 1pm – 10pm | Closed on Mondays

The Garden Slug
55 Lorong L Telok Kurau, #01-59/61 Bright Centre, S425500
opening hours:
Mon-Tue 6pm – 10pm | Wed-Thu 10am – 10pm | Fri – Sun 9am – 10pm

Food #03 @ Post-Museum
109 Rowell Road, S208033
opening hours:
Tue–Thu 5pm – 10pm | Fri 3pm– 11pm
Sat–Sun 12noon – 11pm | Closed on Mondays

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SINGAPORE, 08 June 2011 – Pink Dot SG today announced Google Singapore is supporting Pink Dot 2011 on 18 June 2011. On this day, Singaporeans will, for the third year running, gather at Hong Lim Park to form a human pink dot in support of the belief that everyone deserves the freedom to love.

Pink Dot 2011 marks the first time that such an international company has publicly supported Pink Dot and its values. Google Singapore has pledged sponsorship to the event, highlights of which will include a concert with comedic trio Dim Sum Dollies, Broadway Beng Sebastian Tan, Jill Marie Thomas and dance group Voguelicious.

“We are heartened and very humbled that international players such as Google Singapore are making a clear stand on embracing diversity through their support of Pink Dot 2011. Many in Singapore’s lesbian, gay, bisexual … Read More »

We talk to the everyday heroes who make Singapore a better place person by person, day after day. These LGBT support groups will also have a booth (or a picnic mat) at Pink Dot 2011, so come by and say hi!

Who They Are: A monthly gathering of lesbian and bisexual women every month. It was founded in 2003 by Charmaine Tan and Eileena Lee.

What They Do: Discussions and talks about anything related to the lives of gay women.

How To Get In Touch:
http://women-snite.livejournal.com/;

Email: women.snite@gmail.com

[Snapshot]
Women’s Nite is a monthly gathering of lesbian and bisexual women in Singapore. Their events offer a safe space to talk about relationships, love, sexuality in a safe, neutral and alcohol-free environment. Previous topics included: “Rent, buy or with the folks?”, “Out Or Not” and “Reaching Out”.

[Q&A]

We catch up with some of the volunteers behind Women’s Nite Gea … Read More »

We talk to the everyday heroes who make Singapore a better place person by person, day after day. These LGBT support groups will also have a booth (or a picnic mat) at Pink Dot 2011, so come by and say hi!

Who they are:
A community for gay men to interact and have fun through social activities while building healthy and lasting friendships.
What they do:
Leisure activities are organised almost every month where members can interact and have fun.
When was it set up:19 August 2006
How to get in touch:
• Website : rainbower.sg
• Email: rainbower.sg@gmail.com

[Snapshot]

Rainbower is a friendly community for gay men to interact and build lasting and healthy friendships with each other. Fun-filled leisure and social activities are usually organised once a month at various locations for members to share the going-ons in their lives and to relax. Their gatherings culminate into their … Read More »

We talk to the everyday heroes who make Singapore a better place person by person, day after day. These LGBT support groups will also have a booth (or a picnic mat) at Pink Dot 2011, so come by and say hi!

QUEER BOOK CLUB

Who they are:
The Queer Book Club was founded in 2008 by Zhuang Yisa, Isaac Kang and Aaron Ho. The idea was born after they attended an Indignation night hike and talked about books. Two months later, the Queer Book Club page on Facebook was set up.

What they do:
The group meets up every 3rd Thursday of the month to discuss a book. Aaron says, “We’d do a gay novel in the first month; a lesbian text in the second; and queer in the third. By queer, we mean any books to do with sexuality, including novels on transsexuals, … Read More »

We talk to the everyday heroes who make Singapore a better place person by person, day after day. These LGBT support groups will also have a booth (or a picnic mat) at Pink Dot 2011, so come by and say hi!

Who they are: A resource centre and library for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered and curious individuals.
What they do: Their library has about 1,000 non-fiction and fiction titles, and they regularly hold book launches, talks and workshops.
When was it set up: 2003 by Charmaine Tan, Eileena Lee and Dinesh Naidu.
How to get in touch:
Website http://www.pelangipridecentre.org/; Facebook; Email pelangipridecentre@yahoo.com
Address: Free Community Church, 56 Lor Geylang #03-00 Century Technology Building, S 388391 (Open Sat 2-6pm)

[Snapshot]

A free library resource stocked with LGBT-related fiction and non-fiction titles, the Pelangi Pride Centre is run by about 20 volunteers. Currently, they’re housed at Free Community Church … Read More »

It’s not easy being gay in Singapore, but there is a whole bunch of people working towards making this country a more open-minded and harmonious home for all Singaporeans. This is the first in a series of profiles of local LGBT organisations. We talk to the everyday heroes who make Singapore a better place person by person, day after day. These groups will also have a booth (or a picnic mat) at Pink Dot 2011, so come by and say hi!

OOGACHAGA

Who they are: A counselling and social service group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered and curious individuals.
What they do: Counselling services and support group events, which are run by a pool of volunteers and volunteer counsellors. They have 60 volunteers, 12 who are counsellors and 4 full-time staff.
When was it set up: 1999 by Jason Wee, Steve Wong and … Read More »

Pink Dot has an important message to our friends and supporters from around the world. If you’re a foreigner planning to attend Pink Dot, please note that only Singapore citizens and Singapore permanent residents are allowed to participate in the formation of Pink Dot.

Pink Dot stresses that this rule is mandated by the authorities governing Hong Lim Park (Speaker’s Corner), where the event will be held, and not by the organisers of Pink Dot.

Pink Dot welcomes everybody, regardless whether you are straight or gay. However, Pink Dot also recognises the importance of playing by the rules and seeks the kind cooperation of our non-Singaporean/PR friends and supporters. You are welcome to join in the festivities! During the formation of the dot, a special area will be set aside for non-Singaporeans/PRs to watch and observe.

Pink Dot appreciates all the love coming … Read More »

Q: What is Pink Dot?
A: Pink Dot is the name of the organising group. It references the term, Red Dot, which is often used to describe Singapore. Pink, instead of red, because it is the colour often associated with LGBT (think: pink dollar and pink feather boas) but more importantly, it is the colour of our national identity cards and it is what you get when you mix the colours of our national flag.

Q: Is this event legit or legal?
A: Yes, of course! We have registered for the event and we shall strive to conduct ourselves appropriately, as set out in National Parks’ terms and conditions.

Q: Are foreigners allowed to attend?
A: According to the park’s terms and conditions, only Singaporeans and Permanent Residents may participate at events held at Hong Lim Park. However, foreigners are most welcome to watch and … Read More »

Press Release

SINGAPORE, 18 May 2011 – In exactly one month, on 18 June 2011, Singaporeans will, for the third year running, gather at Hong Lim Park to form a human pinkdot in support of the belief that everyone deserves the freedom to love.

Organised by a pool of Singaporean volunteers, Pink Dot campaigns for diversity, inclusiveness, and works to foster understanding for the basic human need to love and be loved, regardless of oneʼs sexual orientation.

This year, Pink Dot 2011 is fronted by the DIM SUM DOLLIES (picture below), the comedy trio comprising Emma Yong, Pam Oei and Selena Tan. Festivities begin at 4.30pm with a dynamic line-up including performances by Dave Tan of local indie band Electrico, Broadway Beng Sebastian Tan and dance group Voguelicious.

A campaign video, conceptualised and directed by award-winning filmmaker Boo Junfeng (Sandcastle, Cannes 2010), can be … Read More »

COUNTDOWN TO PINK DOT 2011!
SAVE THE DATE: 18 JUNE 2011

Hi everyone!

We’ve been a busy little red dot over the last few weeks, haven’t we! Seeing Singaporeans swept up in the heat of the General Elections and having a say in the country they love – it was so nice for us to see Singapore come together as one.

Now, we hope that everyone will come together again for PINK DOT 2011 to celebrate the freedom to love.

If you believe that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender people deserve to express their love just like any other Singaporean, come joins us to form a giant PINK dot on June 18, and help us make this statement!

That’s right – in exactly ONE MONTH, Hong Lim Park will play host to a wonderful array of exciting activities, including performances from our PinkDot Ambassadors, the Dim Sum … Read More »

Pink Dot 2011 is here! And the fabulous Dim Sum Dollies are our ambassadors this year!

Everyone should have the freedom to love, regardless of sexual orientation. But fear, ignorance and prejudice often stand in the way. At Pink Dot, we believe the first step to overcoming these barriers is for open-minded segments of society to come together. If you too feel that LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) people deserve to express their love just like any other Singaporean, please join us at Hong Lim Park on 18 June 2011.

Can’t wait to know the date for Pink Dot 2011? Our fabulous ambassadors will be making a special appearance at the beach this weekend to make the announcement! Come to the White Party on 23 April! http://bit.ly/fTZ4dv

Come see us, and take pictures with our adorable Pink Dot Plushies!

Pink Dot started out as a grassroots initiative at a town hall meeting. In November 2008, some 20 people responded to an open call for ideas. Over drinks at a bar, they shared their ideas and views on putting together a Speakers Corner event in support of LGBT Singaporeans.

What transpired were two consecutive years of social campaigns that have reached thousands of Singaporeans, straight and gay.

In 2009, the inaugural Pink Dot event drew a 2,500-strong crowd to Speakers Corner. It was, then, the largest … Read More »

Press Release: Hong Lim Park becomes a sea of Pink, with over 4,000 turning up for Pink Dot 2010

Singapore, May 15, 2010 – Over 4,000 pink-attired people gathered at Hong Lim Park today at 6pm to form a giant pink dot in a show of support for inclusiveness, diversity and the freedom to love. This makes Pink Dot 2010 the largest public gathering ever seen at the Speakers’ Corner since its opening in 2000, and is nearly twice the number of people who turned up at last year’s event.

The milestone event, held for the second time here, is organised by a group of local volunteers and aims to raise awareness and foster deeper understanding of the basic human need to love and be loved, regardless of one’s sexual orientation. This year’s theme is family, and the peaceful event was attended … Read More »

Get your tops, umbrellas, hats, socks and wigs out! We’re a matter of just hours away from Pink Dot 2010!

Last year, 2500 Singaporeans turned up for Pink Dot, making it the largest gathering ever recorded at Hong Lim Park in Singapore’s history. Come join us this year to break that record, and to show your support for the Freedom to Love.

But before we gather to celebrate our year of the Family at Hong Lim Park this Saturday, here’s a look back at the 2010 campaign so far.
————
In February, we announced the date and the theme of the year – Family; and then in March, we introduced our ambassadors for Pink Dot 2010:

“I think Pink Dot helps to cast aside prejudices, and I think if we can get people to open up their hearts to their loved ones, it would be … Read More »

We’re just days away from the event!!! There are lots in store this year and we are hopeful that our friends, straight and gay, will join us in our celebration of the Family. Meanwhile, here are some responses to the questions we’ve been getting:

Q: How is Pink Dot 2010 different from Pink Dot 2009?

A: Pink Dot 2009 was the first platform where citizens could show, publicly, their support for LGBT family members and friends. Pink Dot 2010 takes our core message – to celebrate the Freedom to Love – a step further with a special focus on love within families.

Q: Will the event be exactly like last year?

A: Not exactly. Thanks to the love and generosity of our supporters, we are aiming to take the Freedom to … Read More »

Pink Dot hears thee. She responds to questions and comments!

Q: What is this Pink Dot?!
A: Pink Dot is the name of the organizing group. It references the term, Red Dot, which is often used to describe Singapore. Pink, instead of red, because it is the colour often associated with LGBT (think: pink dollar and pink feather boas) but more importantly, it is the colour of our national identity cards and it is what you get when you mix the colours of our national flag. Yes, we are a patriotic bunch!

Q: Is this event legit or legal?
A: Yes, of course! We have registered for the event and we shall strive to conduct ourselves appropriately, as set out in National Parks’ terms and conditions. Who says we can’t behave and have fun at the same time!

Q: Is this a gay event?
A: As … Read More »