NEW YORK - On May 14 GLSEN's Executive Director, Dr. Eliza Byard, thanked Oregon Gov. Kate Brown and the state's Legislature for passing and signing into law a ban on the use of conversion therapy on minors. Oregon joins California, New Jersey and Washington, D.C., as the only regions that ban conversion therapy, also known as 'reparative therapy,' and is the first state to do so since President Obama called for an end to the practice last month.

Organizations including the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Counseling Association, the American Psychiatric Association, the American School Counselor Association and many others reject the use of conversion therapy for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) youth. GLSEN's Just the Facts about Sexual Orientation and Youth: A Primer for Principals, Educators, and School Personnel, produced in partnership with a coalition of education, health, mental health and religious organizations, addresses this and other practices.

'We are very pleased that Oregon has banned the use of conversion therapy on minors and thank Gov. Brown and the Oregon Legislature for taking this important step. We hope Oregon will prove to be just the first of many states to ban this harmful and discredited practice that uses rejection, shame and psychological abuse aimed at changing one's sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. Studies conducted by major mental health organizations and personal testimony from LGBT youth have shown that conversion therapy can create dangerous and even life-threatening effects, including depression, decreased self-esteem, substance abuse and suicidal behavior.'

Danni/y Rosen, chair of GLSEN Oregon continued:

'GLSEN Oregon thanks the legislature and governor for protecting LGBT youth in Oregon from the detrimental effects of conversion therapy. This law moves us one step closer to ensuring that all students in Oregon are safe and affirmed both in and out of school.'

About GLSEN
GLSEN is the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe and affirming schools for all students. Celebrating its 25th year, GLSEN envisions a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity/expression. GLSEN seeks to develop school climates where difference is valued for the positive contribution it makes to creating a more vibrant and diverse community. For information on GLSEN's research, educational resources, public policy advocacy, student organizing programs and educator training initiatives, visit www.glsen.org.

Courtesy of GLSEN

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