CONGRESSMAN LIEU STATEMENT ON REPUBLICAN PARTY’S SUPPORT FOR CONVERSION THERAPY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D | Los Angeles County) issued the following statement regarding the Republican Party’s 2016 Platform. Among many anti-LGBT ideas, the platform includes support for so-called LGBT “conversion therapy,” which falsely purports to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Last year, Congressman Lieu introduced the Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act, which classifies for-profit conversion therapy as fraud under the Federal Trade Commission Act.

“Time and again, Republicans have gone out of their way to promote backwards ideas targeting the LGBT community. I am sickened that the Republican Party’s 2016 Platform supports conversion therapy for minors. Conversion therapy is not only ineffective, but causes severe harm to those subjected to it, often leading to suicidal thoughts, family isolation, and depression. Ignoring the guidance of nearly all the mainstream medical and mental health organizations who have denounced conversion therapy is irresponsible and dangerous.”

“Our leaders have a duty to protect all Americans. Last year I introduced the Therapeutic Fraud Prevention Act, which would root out for-profit conversion therapy across the nation. It’s clear that in the face of efforts to perpetuate this dangerous pseudoscience, we need to take an even stronger stand against it. To truly strengthen the American family, we must treat every person with respect and kindness, regardless of our differences. Ending conversion therapy will help us reach this goal.”

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