Conversion therapy executive order in the best interest of Wisconsin youth

We applaud Governor Tony Evers for taking the important step last week of issuing an executive order that bans the use of state and federal funds by the Department of Health Services, Department of Children and Families and Department of Corrections for conversion therapy for individuals 18 years of age and younger.

Conversion therapy is a dangerous practice aimed at changing a person’s sexual orientation or gender expression, and has been cited to increase the likelihood of someone experiencing depression, anxiety or attempting suicide.

Conversation therapy contradicts many fundamental principles of good government, namely, that we should be supporting our residents in whatever ways we can. This is why in March of 2018, Milwaukee became the first city in Wisconsin to outlaw conversion therapy practices for anyone under 18. Since then, 11 other local governments have followed suit.

While 20 states have banned conversation therapy, Wisconsin is not yet a part of that list. We will continue to call for a statewide ban on this harmful practice, and strongly encourage action from municipalities in the interim.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.