Senator Agard Disappointed in Republicans Doubling Down on Anti-LGBTQ+ Action

MADISON – Today, Senate Republicans are poised to take action on legislation that would continue to allow the practice of conversion therapy in Wisconsin. During today’s floor session, Senate Republicans will effectively block the ban on conversion therapy that was implemented by Governor Evers’ Administration. State Senator Melissa Agard (D-Madison), Senate Democratic Leader, released the following statement:

“As legislators, we have the duty to look out for the best interests of all Wisconsinites, including our LGBTQ youth. All kids deserve to feel safe, loved, and know that they belong, no matter their identity. Unfortunately, Republicans again chose to ignore science, neglect their responsibility, and demonize our LGBTQ children.

“As Democrats we know that it’s our moral obligation to ensure that government works as a force for good in our state, expanding opportunity and improving the lives of the people we represent. It is incredibly disappointing that one of the very first items we are taking up today will reinstate conversion ‘therapy’ in Wisconsin.

“Conversion ‘therapy’ is a dangerous, discriminatory, and pseudoscientific practice and does nothing to keep our kids or communities safe. We know that our LGBTQ youth are four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers, but we also know that just one accepting adult decreases that risk significantly.

“The actions of my Republican colleagues are despicable, negligent, and will cause harm. Contrary to the GOP, Senate Democrats are unified in opposing this detrimental practice. We will continue to be staunch advocates and partners in the State Legislature for Wisconsin’s LGBTQ community, and we will not stop fighting until conversion therapy is a prohibited practice and people’s rights, liberties, and freedoms are honored and respected.”

The Human Rights Campaign explains that “conversion therapy” is a range of dangerous and discredited practices that falsely claim to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity or expression. Minors are especially vulnerable, and conversion therapy can lead to depression, anxiety, drug use, homelessness, and suicide.

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.