By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A recent halachic document signed by 75 Orthodox rabbis and rabbanit condemns conversion therapy, citing its harm, ineffectiveness, and the understanding that same-sex attraction is not a mental health issue. The document calls for acceptance and inclusion, emphasizing that these practices cause deep psychological harm and contradict the commandment to love one’s neighbor. The signatories, who consulted with LGBTQ individuals, assert that the focus should be on respecting individuals rather than attempting to change their core identities. The movement, spearheaded by figures like Rabbi Aviya Rozen, signifies a shift towards understanding and embracing LGBTQ individuals within the religious community.
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Dozens of Orthodox rabbis issue ban on gay conversion therapy. This news is definitely something to celebrate. It’s heartening to see any religious community taking a stand against practices that are, at their core, harmful and ineffective. Conversion therapy, as it’s often called, has absolutely no place in a compassionate or ethical society. It’s really good to see this happening.
Dozens of Orthodox rabbis issue ban on gay conversion therapy is a really positive step. I think about the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals who have been subjected to these so-called therapies and it’s just heartbreaking. The emotional and psychological damage is often profound, and the idea that anyone would intentionally inflict that kind of pain on another person under the guise of “treatment” is simply unacceptable.
Dozens of Orthodox rabbis issue ban on gay conversion therapy, and the fact that this is happening within a traditionally conservative religious context makes it all the more significant. I was also thinking about how one of the rabbis who signed the ban is someone who seems to be an amazing person. Apparently, he’s known for being kind, seeing the good in others, and appreciating the beauty in both Judaism and the diversity within the Israeli people. It just goes to show that compassion and religious faith can go hand in hand. He even donates kidneys, which is incredible.
Dozens of Orthodox rabbis issue ban on gay conversion therapy and it’s really important to consider what “conversion therapy” actually entails. It’s not some benign process. People have described it as torture. Whether it’s the more extreme methods like electroshock therapy and beatings, or the more subtle forms of shaming and guilt-tripping, the goal is always to try to change someone’s sexual orientation. But the scientific and psychological evidence is crystal clear: it doesn’t work. The potential for causing severe and lasting damage is undeniable.
Dozens of Orthodox rabbis issue ban on gay conversion therapy is the correct position to take. The logic behind conversion therapy often falls apart when you look at it closely. The premise that a person’s sexual orientation is a choice they can simply change is flawed. And even if a person *wanted* to change, the methods used are often cruel, harmful, and ultimately ineffective. It is not helpful to tell people they should just find a way to change their inner feelings.
Dozens of Orthodox rabbis issue ban on gay conversion therapy is a step in the right direction, and it’s also worth noting that this is not a mainstream view in all corners of Orthodoxy. It’s more likely to be coming from the Modern Orthodox community. They tend to be more engaged with the modern world and approach religious practice in a way that balances tradition with contemporary values. It’s really important to remember that there are many different branches within Judaism, and it’s not a monolithic group.
Dozens of Orthodox rabbis issue ban on gay conversion therapy shows a positive shift. The ban includes the directive that no rabbi, educator, or therapist should recommend this practice. This is a crucial aspect of the ban because it actively discourages conversion therapy.
Dozens of Orthodox rabbis issue ban on gay conversion therapy also brings up a bigger issue about bad therapy in general. There are many therapies that are not based on good evidence, and they can be actively harmful. It is super important to have licensed therapists using an evidence-based approach. The idea that people should be allowed to seek out any treatment they want, regardless of its effectiveness or potential harm, is dangerous.
Dozens of Orthodox rabbis issue ban on gay conversion therapy, and it’s important to remember that if the “therapy” actually worked, the discussion about it would be a whole different one. But we have over 60 years of research on the subject and it has been proven to not work.
Dozens of Orthodox rabbis issue ban on gay conversion therapy and the move to ban it aligns with how this conversation should be going. When you have to torture someone to try to change them, it’s not really going to work.