West Allis approves ban on conversion therapy

Yesterday, the West Allis Common Council passed an ordinance banning the practice of conversation therapy on minors.  I applaud the West Allis legislators for taking this important step, as well as the community members who advocated for this change.

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.

Allis Alderman Angelito Tenorio, who introduced the ordinance, stated, “We took conclusive action to protect West Allis’ youth from this incredibly harmful practice and sent a message to our LGBTQ+ identifying citizens that their identity is valid, they are loved, and their community acknowledges them and the value they bring to our city.”

I couldn’t agree more with this sentiment, and that is why in March 2018, under legislation I sponsored, Milwaukee became the first city in Wisconsin to outlaw conversion therapy practices for anyone under 18. I am grateful that Madison, Sheboygan, Superior, Eau Claire, Cudahy, Shorewood, Racine, Appleton, Glendale, and now West Allis have followed suit since then.

I will continue to call for a statewide ban on conversion therapy, and strongly encourage action from municipalities in the interim.