DPW LGBT Caucus Supports Milwaukee’s Proposed Ban on Conversion Therapy Print
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Written by Democratic Party of Wisconsin, Melanie Conklin   
Tuesday, 27 March 2018 10:35

milw_riverConversion therapy is an incredibly harmful practice that subjects LGBT people to abusive, dangerous and discredited practices in a misguided attempt to change their sexuality or gender identity.


MILWAUKEE, WI - The Milwaukee Common Council will vote Tuesday on whether or not to ban conversion therapy from being used on minors. The Democratic Party of Wisconsin (DPW) and the DPW LGBT Caucus released the following statements in support of the proposed ban.

cityofmilwaukeelogo“Conversion therapy is an incredibly harmful practice that subjects LGBT people to abusive, dangerous and discredited practices in a misguided attempt to change their sexuality or gender identity,” said Austin Kieler, Vice-Chair of the DPW LGBT Caucus and Milwaukee resident. “This practice leads to increased rates of suicide and depression as well as other long-term negative consequences.”

“Conversion therapy has been condemned by every major medical association in the country and has been banned in nine states, the District of Columbia and multiple municipalities across America. It’s time that Milwaukee join this growing list and pass this ordinance to protect our LGBT youth by outlawing conversion therapy when performed on minors under the age of 18,” added Kieler.

“This ordinance is about protecting our youth,” said Martha Laning, chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin. “The LGBT youth in Milwaukee deserve their community’s support and their community’s protection from this harmful practice. The Democratic Party of Wisconsin calls on the Milwaukee Common Council to make the right choice and prioritize its LGBT community.”

The Milwaukee Common Council will be voting on this proposed ban today. The proposed ordinance is sponsored by Alds. Cavalier Johnson, José Pérez and Tony Zielinski.

Last Updated on Wednesday, 28 March 2018 14:40