Chicago Illinois — Today, on the International Day to End Conversion Therapy, Equality Illinois stands in solidarity with survivors and advocates around the world in calling for an end to practices that attempt to change or suppress a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. This day is a reminder that conversion therapy practices are discredited, harmful, have no basis in evidence, and have been linked to trauma, depression, and increased risk of suicide.
In 2015, Illinois passed the Illinois Youth Mental Health Protection Act. The Act prohibits licensed mental health care providers from engaging in conversion therapy practices with anyone under the age of 18. Equality Illinois thank Illinois leaders like the Act’s chief sponsors State Rep. Kelly Cassidy and former State Sen. Daniel Biss for their strong support in advancing protections that keep LGBTQ+ people safe and affirmed in our state. Their leadership makes a real difference.
Equality Illinois also wants to highlight the release of the Illinois Guide for Survivors of Conversion Practices, a powerful new resource developed by a coalition of mental health, legal, LGBTQ+, and survivor-advocacy organizations. This guide helps survivors understand their rights, report harmful practitioners, and seek accountability under Illinois law. With you in this fight!
Mike Ziri
Director of Public Policy
EQUALITY ILLINOIS
Pronouns: He/him/his
IL Pride Connect is a resource hub for our state’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Resources can be accessed at:
IL Pride Connect Resource Hub: www.ilprideconnect.org
Legal Hotline: 855-805-9200, which is free and confidential and available 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday–Thursday in English and Spanish
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Equality Illinois
PO Box 1313
Chicago, IL 60690
United States