I’m glad and relieved! During the National Day Rally on 21st August 2022, Singapore’s Prime Minister announced that the government will repeal Section 377A! Homosexuality has been a long-standing issue, and this historic news is a huge win for the LGBTQ+ community.
Many years ago when Pink Dot Singapore was in its first few years, I asked a friend if he was going.
He shared that he was just about to donate towards Pink Dot when a friend asked him, “Would you support Pink Dot if your child was gay?”
He revealed that question made him pause and think about whether he should support Pink Dot because apparently it’s one thing to support others yet another when it directly affects him or his family.
I didn’t say anything then but I do wonder to this date what I could or should have said.
Perhaps I should have asked: “Do you think being LGBT is a choice?” and left it as it was.
Maybe I could invite him to consider: “The same reasons you would support Pink Dot would be the reasons you would support your child.”
Or maybe something more vague like: “Love is love. Does it matter?”
Would your stance be different outwardly (others) vs internally (at home)? What would you have said? Do you identify as an ally? Do you proactively educate yourself on how to be one?
Written: 7 August 2022
About Dr. Martha Tara Lee
Surrounded by friends who were sexually inhibited and struck by dire lack of positive conversations around sex and sexuality in Singapore, Dr. Martha Tara Lee set out to make a positive difference in embarking on her doctorate in human sexuality before launching Eros Coaching in 2009. Today, she remains dedicated to working with individuals and couples who wish to lead self-actualised and pleasure-filled lives.
She also holds certificates in counselling, coaching and sex therapy, and her fourth degree – a Masters in Counselling in May 2018. In practice since 2009, she is the only certified sexuality educator and certified sexuality educator supervisor by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) in Singapore.
Often cited in the media, Dr. Lee is the appointed Clinical Sexologist for Singapore Cancer Society. She was recognised as one of ‘Top 50 Inspiring Women Under 40′ by Her World in July 2010, and one of ‘Top 100 Inspiring Women’ by CozyCot in March 2011. She has published four books: Love, Sex and Everything In-Between, Orgasmic Yoga, From Princess to Queen and {Un}Inhibited.
Martha works with individuals and couples in private coaching sessions, and conducts her own workshops. She takes prides in making sure all her workshops are also fun, educational, and sex-positive. This comes easily to her because even though she is extremely dedicated and serious about her work, she fundamentally believes that sex is meant to be fun, wonderful, amazing and sacred. As such, this serious light-heartedness has shone through again and again. For her full profile, click here. Email her here.
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