LGBTQ Victory In Massachusetts

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker has signed H. 140, a bill protecting our youth from so-called “conversion therapy,” into law. Massachusetts now becomes the 16th state in the U.S. to protect youth from this heartless practice. Marty Rouse, HRC National Field Director stated, “This legislation grants LGBTQ youth in Massachusetts a new freedom to live authentically, free from fear of the debunked & potentially life-threatening practice of so-called ‘conversion therapy. We thank & applaud Gov. Baker & the Massachusetts General Assembly for making these protections law & congratulate them in taking this momentous bipartisan step forward in ensuring Massachusetts is a safe and affirming state for all LGBTQ children.” There isn’t any credible evidence that conversion therapy can change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity or expression. To the contrary, research has clearly shown that these practices pose devastating health risks for LGBTQ young people such as depression, decreased self-esteem, substance abuse, homelessness & even suicidal behavior. The harmful practice has been condemned by every major medical & mental health organization, including the American Psychiatric Association, American Psychological Association & American Medical Association. Massachusetts becomes the 16th state to protect our youth from so-called “conversion therapy,” following California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington & the District of Columbia with Puerto Rico’s Governor issued an executive order protecting minors in the commonwealth from the harmful practice last month. Now we have just 34 states to go.
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