Heartfelt thanks
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I am terrible at public speaking so when faced with speaking to a room full of people, the words usually do not come out as planned. This is why I think I’d better pen it down on my blog.
First of all, I thank The Online Citizen for recognising the efforts of activists in Singapore, especially the ones who are working on campaigns against the death penalty and Internal Security Act (ISA). It came as a surprise when I was notified by Ravi Philemon via email about their decision to present me with the TOC award for “Activist of the Year” because I felt (and still feel so) that there are others who are more deserving than I. Nevertheless, it was a heartwarming gesture.
I would like to dedicate this award to my fellow friends and colleagues in activism (SADPC) who I have worked closely with over the years, especially human rights lawyer M Ravi for he has been an inspirational figure in my life with the determination and tremendous effort he has been putting into the legal battles for a more humane society as well as a very good friend armed with a listening ear and encouraging words when obstacles appear. This dedication also goes out to Post Museum, TOC, publichouse.sg and friends from all across the various opposition political parties and groups such as Think Centre and We Believe in Second Chances for their solidarity, support and collaborations over the years. The work is never mine alone, hence this award is not mine alone as well. It really goes out to everyone (yes Alan Shadrake, you too).
Although this path is not one that is always smooth sailing, with obstacles such as police harassment, email threats from anonymous strangers, and negative reactions towards our work coming from some of our family members, relatives and personal friends, I do believe that we will not waver easily.
No, we shall not waver.
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rachelzeng.wordpress.com 
You have spoken well because you spoke right from your heart. 🙂
Comment by Goh Meng Seng January 14, 2012 @ 3:39 amHehe I certainly hope that I spoke ok :p Thank you once again!
Comment by rachelabsinthe January 14, 2012 @ 5:41 pmI think of ALL the activist Rachel, you stand tallest, not only in your post, but also the way, you approach this whole MDP issue, very inspiring and keep it up!
Comment by fcukauy January 14, 2012 @ 12:07 pmThank you for your kind words!
Comment by rachelabsinthe January 14, 2012 @ 5:40 pmYou deserve it Rachel! Congrats! 🙂
Comment by Amirah January 14, 2012 @ 2:24 pmThank you Amirah!
Comment by rachelabsinthe January 14, 2012 @ 5:40 pmCongratulations Rachel!
Does this mean you are now a “higher ranking activist” too?
I will go ask the other “higher ranking activist” how he feels about not getting an award. Then comfort him with that “it is an honour just to be nominated” line. I hope he takes it well. Unless he wasn’t even nominated in the first place.
It really is a shame because he has been a “higher ranking activist” for so very long now. But there’s always next year!
Comment by Singa Crew January 16, 2012 @ 7:28 pmOi no no, all of us stand as equals. There is no such thing as “higher ranking” or “lower ranking” in activism. I don’t believe in such an elitist bull crap to be honest. 🙂 Everyone of us have a part to play, and we don’t work alone in our causes so everyone has to be recognised and hence my blog post here.
Comment by rachelabsinthe January 17, 2012 @ 12:09 am