Right now, Indiana has no laws protecting LGBTQ+ youth from harmful practices aimed at changing their sexual orientation and/or their gender idienty. Conversion therapy is extremely dangerous, particularly when it's aimed at children. In some cases, it can even be fatal.
The American Psychological Association (APA) convened a special Task Force to investigate and review the effectves of conversion therapy.
In 2009, the task force issued a report, finding that risks of so-called "reparative therapy" include:
depression, guilt, helplessness, hopelessness, shame, social withdrawal, suicidality, substance abuse, stress, disappointment, self-blame, decreased self-esteem, increased self-hatred, feelings of hostility and blame toward parents, feelings of anger and betrayal, isolation and loss of support structures, problems with intimacy, sexual dysfunction, high-risk sexual behaviors, a feeling of loss of authenticity being true to oneself, feelings of dehumanization, a loss of faith, and general emotional pain
For children, these dangers become even more intense. In particular, the family rejection that some LGBTQ youth experience
can lead to serious health risks — such as depression, use of illicit substances, unprotected or risky sex, and even suicide.
We cannot let this cruel and harmful practice continue in our great state. In order to protect our children, we must love and celebrate and nurture them
as they are. All children are born perfect.
We must ban the toxic use of conversion therapy for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and trans youth in Indiana now! 