Bans on “conversion practices” are a deceptive label. They deliberately evoke the abusive practices once inflicted on lesbians and gay men, acts that are already punishable as serious criminal offences, including: deprivation of liberty, coercion, assault and abuse.
Proposed bans now apply this historic imagery to something fundamentally different: the distress of pubescent children and vulnerable young people struggling with their sexed bodies, and the demand that families, teachers, therapists and social workers unconditionally affirm this distress as a transgender identity.
At the same time, the scope of what is deemed “conversion” has been obfuscated and expanded. It now encompasses verbal dissent, exploratory and talking therapy, non-affirmation by state and societal actors, such as schools or welfare services, as well as questioning and legitimate objections by parents and family members, particularly in the case of minors.
This expansion rests on the presumption that “trans identity” constitutes an established and mandatory belief system, rather than a contested concept that cannot legitimately be imposed on others.
Many of these young people would grow up to be lesbian or gay. Instead, they are told that gender non-conforming behaviour is evidence of “being in the wrong body,” and are shamed, pressured and ideologically steered away from homosexuality. Conversion therapy bans mandate comprehensive trans affirmation and place these young people on a pathway toward social, legal and medical transition.
Individuals struggling with their sex require open, exploratory and therapeutic support; their families deserve evidence-based care; and society needs honesty and clarity. Extending conversion therapy bans to gender identity and gender expression is doing lasting harm under the guise of human rights protection.
Read and share our comprehensive briefing on the transactivist push to extend “conversion therapy” bans to gender identity and gender expression.