One can already hear the shrieks and wailing among Christofascist circles as Oregon appears to be headed toward joining the list of states than ban the use of bogus, witch doctor like "ex-gay" conversion therapy on minors. The myth that gays can "change" or be "repaired" - hence the term "reparative therapy" - has long been a keystone in the Christofascists' efforts to bar any advancement in LGBT rights. The Columbian looks at the development that suggests that modern medical and mental health knowledge may be about to trump voodoo like religious batshitery. Here are excerpts:
The Oregon House has voted to outlaw a therapy that purports to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of young people.
The bill would make it illegal for social workers or licensed mental health professionals such as psychologists or psychiatrists to practice what's called conversion therapy on children younger than 18.
Laws banning the therapy have passed in New Jersey, California and Washington, D.C. Advocates say bills have been introduced in about two dozen more states.
Rep. Rob Nosse, a Portland Democrat, said the therapy has been widely discredited. He said the therapy can often lead to depression or anxiety in youths. The vote Tuesday was 41-18.
In the state senate, Democrats hold an 18 to 12 majority. As is typical, the Christofascists are claiming the law tramples of "religious free speech rights." In their minds, the torturing children and youth is perfectly fine if it helps abusive parents ignore modern reality and/or the fact that their "deeply held religious beliefs" are based on myths and the writings of ignorant goat herders.
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