It’s not uncommon to see women shouldering most of the caregiving loads. Be it caring for parents, spouses, siblings or children, women are often the ones doing the caregiving.
This is the point made by Communications and Information Minister Josephine Teo in a Facebook post titled “Many hands make light work” on Sep 5.
She cited the example of her grandmother, who not only raised her but also took on caregiving roles across two generations.
“I don’t know how she did it on her own! She had a generous spirit and touched everyone she looked after, me included.” she said.
“It’s true – our women then, and even today, are often the ones shouldering the caregiving loads in their homes and communities.”
Time for a mindset shift
Minister Teo, also the Party’s Women’s Wing’s Chair, urged Singaporeans to look at how everyone can contribute to caregiving duties and not leaving it exclusively for women.
“It’s time we shifted mindsets and embrace how every individual can help lighten the heavy caregiving load, and play an equal part in bringing care to those around them.”
While women’s development in Singapore may have reached a high base, the PAP Government intends to further strengthen it, she said earlier this year during the White Paper on Singapore Women’s Development debate.
She also pointed the need for everyone to take action in their homes, workplaces, community and relationships in order to create a fairer and more inclusive society, in spite of the various legislation and support from the Government.
Undoubtedly, societal mindset shift must work hand in glove with legislation as a part of the new social compact between people and Government.
Because that’s the only way to effect sustained change.
On Sep 10, come on down to Sands Expo & Convention Centre for the #ActionForHer: Growing Our Circles Of Care exhibition with your friends and family.
You will see many local initiatives such as Be Kind SG, Kampung Kakis, GoodHood.SG and more and learn how you can make a difference in caring for your loved ones.
#ActionForHer: Growing Our Circles of Care
Saturday, Sep 10, 2022
1pm – 6pm
Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Heliconia Junior Ballroom, Level 3
10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956
Admission is free
Cover photo credit: Josephine Teo Facebook