To look life in the face

Alluding to Virginia Wolf in A Room of One’s Own, Alida Brill states that the
mirror women have so long held up to men—a mirror that exaggerates and
flatters male attributes—has increasingly projected a more realistic image since
women’s entry into public life. However, she cautions, many men resent these
newer projections and therefore fight against them.21 Some argue that in many
cases, women politicians have become “just like other men” in their attitudes—
usually meaning aggressive, manipulative, unfair or any of a number of pejorative
adjectives. Others contend that many women in public life have studiously avoided
taking up issues particularly (but by no means only) relevant to women’s welfare
or interests. Brill therefore asks again: “Is there a woman’s voice in politics
which is unique? Does it really make a difference that women have achieved
political office? Would it be just as good if there were more men in politics
world-wide who were sympathetic to the women’s agenda?”

- UNDP (2000) Women's Political Participation and Good Governance: 21st Century Challenges. In: Beijing + 5: Women's Political Participation: Review of Strategies and Trends.

From AWARE's CEDAW oral statement:

"Incentives are inadequate (see Article 11, page 71; points 11.38-11.41) for flexible work arrangements to become a norm. Absence of policies at the National level - for example on provisions for unpaid paternal leave or across-board paternity leave – only serve to entrench the ‘men as heads of household’ stereotype." 

Kudos, Germany! If not for the high taxes, I would seriously consider moving there. 

The beginning. Kai1 shi3. Hoi chi. Das Anfang.

I will start tomorrow, probably 'training' to promote the society for the Tunnel Party on Saturday. Received an email today from M as well, Manager for Corporate Administration at the society.

Having been a city girl all my life, born and bred as a middle-class citizen of my country, most of the 'gender equity' issues I have faced so far don't go beyond 'who does the housework' and 'who pays for dinner'. Finally, I may be able to find the answers that I have been looking for all my life. Starting tomorrow.

Just a side note, JGL and I were sitting under a coconut tree today outside Ngee Ann City. A boy not older than 16 came up to us asking for a donation. After giving him money with some hesitation, he asked us, "Are you from Sg? Because I hear your accent…" 

Dearest red passport, I'm afraid I am 'sort of' from here…