As with most societies, there will always be segments of populations adverse to LGBT. Zhenkanglai writes that "Singapore isn't LGBT-friendly". I will colour this further: The LGBT movement has come a long way in Singapore. While Singapore authorities did take actions against LGBT in the past, in the recent years, it has been largely tolerant of the LGBT population here. The establishment of the annual Pinkdot[1] event since 2009 is an example of the tolerance, and as well as repealing of certain laws.[2] It has also been reported that local public universities are making their campuses safe spaces recently.[3]

Will Wikimania participants feel any of the LGBT-unfriendliness? Hard to say. I certainly hope not. Singapore has been a host to many visitors, be it tourists, or foreigners working, studying here, seeking medical treatment on a long-term basis. If there were such unfriendliness, there may be news of this spreading, be it in the mainstream media or in the social media (where such matters can turn viral pretty fast).

With regards to the arrangement of the toilets at the venue, us organisers are certainly aware of the sensitivities and will make the arrangements clear in subsequent briefings of the event closer to August.

[1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pink_Dot_SG

[2]: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/s377a-officially-repealed-as-president-assents-to-changes-to-legislation

[3]: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/cna-insider/transgender-students-safe-space-university-halls-dorms-gender-neutral-toilets-campus-housing-policy-2752946

Robertsky

A Singaporean on the Wikimania 2023 COT

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From: zhenkanglai@gmail.com <zhenkanglai@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, June 29, 2023 9:07 PM
To: wikimania-l@lists.wikimedia.org <wikimania-l@lists.wikimedia.org>
Subject: [Wikimania-l] Re: Use of this email list for anti-LGBTQ myths

 

Speaking as a Singaporean, I just want to add that, unfortunately, Singapore isn't LGBT-friendly, but as far as I'm concerned, as raised by the organisers, that the venue held will be a safe space for the LGBT community and there will be respective accommodations for all attending. And I doubt the organizers should tolerate such transphobia or any form of queerphobia at such events.
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