Oregon Puts an End to Conversion Therapy for Youth

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Friday, May 22, 2015

Briauna Skye McKizzie, GoLocalPDX Contributor

Basic Rights Oregon has officially made the announcement that Oregon is banning conversion therapy for Youth.

Joining Governor Kate Brown, Basic Rights Oregon signed HB 2307, the Youth Mental Health Protection Act. This act bans conversion therapy for minors by mental health providers. 

“There are many things our young people need, but breaking them down based on their sexual or gender identity is not one of them. In fact, it is inexcusable. Our young people deserve acceptance, support, and love. To the young people who question their identities, suffer from bullying, or struggle with what it means to come out, today is for you,” said Governor Brown. 

Conversion therapy has been strongly associated with what Basic Rights Oregon calls “dangerous and discredited practices” focused on changing a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. 

Recently, President Obama actively joined the fight to end conversion therapy after the shocking suicide of transgender teen Leelah Alcorn. Leelah Alcorn participated in conversion therapy prior to committing suicide. 

In an effort to protect youth, Oregon joins California, New Jersey and Washington D.C. in its ban of conversion therapy for youth.

“The harms caused by conversion therapy are very real and we must do everything we possibly can as a state to prevent the loss of even one child. I commend Governor Brown and the Oregon Legislature for passing this bill,” said Jeana Frazzini, co-director of Basic Rights Oregon. 

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