Conversion Therapy Legal in 20 States, Hindering LGBTQ+ Progress

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In a landmark case in 2015, a jury in New Jersey delivered a verdict that exposed the fraudulent practices of a Jewish group claiming to offer sexuality conversion therapy. The group, Jews Offering New Alternatives for Healing (JONAH), falsely promised to turn gay Orthodox men straight, leading to a finding of consumer fraud. While JONAH was forced to close its doors, the disturbing reality remains: conversion therapy, a harmful practice rooted in homophobia, is still legally permitted in 20 states.

Chaim Levin, one of the plaintiffs in the aforementioned case, shares a poignant account of his struggle growing up in an Orthodox Jewish community in Brooklyn. Within this deeply conservative environment, Levin found no space to come out and fully embrace his identity as a gay man. Desperate for support, he turned to JONAH as a teenager, hoping their therapy could help him reconcile his sexual orientation with the strict tenets of his faith. Instead, he found himself trapped in a purgatory of uncertainty, caught in what he describes as “no man’s land.”

The closure of JONAH might have marked a significant victory against a specific organization, but it did little to eradicate the broader issue of conversion therapy. It is disheartening to note that despite advancements in LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance, such harmful practices continue to thrive in some parts of the United States.

Conversion therapy, also known as reparative or sexual orientation change efforts, operates on the false premise that homosexuality can be “cured” or changed through therapy. This pseudoscience has long been discredited by reputable medical and psychological organizations, including the American Psychological Association. The detrimental effects of conversion therapy, including increased risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation, have been extensively documented. Yet, 20 states have not taken legislative action to prohibit these dangerous practices, leaving LGBTQ+ individuals vulnerable to manipulation and psychological harm.

In a time when discussions around gender and sexual identity are gaining momentum and striving for inclusivity, the persistence of conversion therapy serves as another significant obstacle for those seeking to find their place in the world. It is alarming that certain states and localities are impeding progress by allowing these harmful practices to persist.

The impact of conversion therapy is particularly pronounced within the Orthodox Jewish community, where cultural and religious conservatism can create additional challenges for LGBTQ+ individuals. The struggle faced by Chaim Levin exemplifies the deep-rooted conflict between sexual orientation and traditional religious beliefs. It is crucial for religious leaders and communities to recognize the harm caused by conversion therapy and actively promote acceptance and support for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Efforts to combat conversion therapy must be multifaceted, involving legal action, education, and support networks. Already, numerous states and localities have taken a proactive stance by enacting legislation to ban conversion therapy. However, there is an urgent need for nationwide consensus to eradicate this harmful practice entirely.

As society progresses towards greater acceptance and understanding, it is imperative that LGBTQ+ individuals are provided with a safe and nurturing environment in which they can thrive. The ongoing battle against conversion therapy reminds us of the importance of fostering inclusivity and protecting the well-being of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.