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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US Supreme Court to examine Colorado’s gay ‘conversion therapy’ ban, and it’s hard not to feel a sense of dread mixed with disbelief. The very idea that a court, especially this one, would even consider overturning a ban on a practice so demonstrably harmful is, frankly, infuriating. It feels like we’re living in a time warp, hurtling backward while the rest of the world hopefully progresses.
The core issue at hand revolves around whether a state, in this case Colorado, has the right to prohibit licensed therapists from providing “conversion therapy” to minors. This isn’t about banning speech; it’s about banning actions, specifically, actions that have been proven to cause significant psychological damage.… Continue reading
The Dutch parliament has recently voted to criminalize conversion therapy, which involves abusive practices aimed at changing someone’s gender identity or sexuality. This legislation passed after modifications to the initial draft, focusing on “systematic” and “intrusive” attempts to change someone’s identity, rather than general conversations. While LGBTQ+ groups celebrated this as a victory for freedom and equality, some parties expressed reservations due to concerns over the law’s scope. This action contrasts with the situation in the UK, where, despite repeated promises and public outcry, a ban on conversion therapy inclusive of trans people has yet to be enacted.
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I never really expected a ruby-red state like Kentucky to make such a progressive move, but Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear banning the use of ‘conversion therapy’ on minors with an executive order is truly a step in the right direction. This widely discredited practice, which aims to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity through counseling, has long-lasting detrimental effects on those subjected to it. It’s appalling that efforts to enact a state law banning this practice repeatedly failed in the Republican-dominated legislature. Kudos to Governor Beshear for using his executive powers to protect children from this harmful practice.
Conversion therapy goes against all scientific evidence, and practitioners who push religion and pseudoscience under the guise of ‘ex-gay’ therapy are causing more harm than good.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood