Equality Virginia:  We must end harmful and ineffective conversion therapy

Jan. 22, 2015 - For immediate release Contact: Kirsten Bokenkamp, [email protected]; 804-643-4816   In response to today’s vote in the Senate Committee on Education and Health to pass by SB 988, the following statement can be attributed to James Parrish, executive director, Equality Virginia: “It is extremely disappointing that our lawmakers cannot come together in support of a bill that would protect Virginia’s LGBT youth.  We cannot continue to allow our youth to be put through this so-called “treatment” that can cause depression, anxiety, and self-destructive behavior.  At best, allowing this harmful treatment on our youth is irresponsible, and at worse, it could contribute to the unthinkable. All major health organizations agree that this therapy is not only ineffective, but is also harmful.  Homosexuality is not a disease or a disorder; prohibiting any health care provider from engaging in sexual orientation change efforts with any person under 18 years of age is necessary to protect our youth as they come to terms with who they are.  Working with a strong coalition of organizations and individuals, Equality Virginia will continue to work to end this harmful practice.”     ### Equality Virginia is a statewide, non-partisan education, outreach, and advocacy organization seeking equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Virginians.  Since 1989, EV has worked to end discrimination, protect families and build safe communities.  More information is online at EqualityVirginia.org.  Connect on Facebook.com/EqualityVA or Twitter @EqualityVA.