Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear has taken a bold stance against conversion therapy, labeling it as “torture” and issuing an executive order to ban the practice in the state. However, his Republican counterparts may choose to ignore this order altogether, raising concerns for the LGBTQ+ community.
Conversion therapy, also known as “reparative therapy,” is a harmful and discredited practice that aims to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity. It often involves psychological and physical techniques that can cause severe emotional and mental distress, leading to long-term trauma and even suicide. Despite being condemned by major medical organizations, conversion therapy is still legal in many states, including Kentucky.
In a powerful statement, Gov. Beshear declared, “Conversion therapy is not therapy at all – it is torture. I believe that every Kentuckian deserves to be accepted and loved for who they are, and no one should be subjected to this dangerous and ineffective practice.” With this, he became the first governor in the southern United States to issue an executive order banning conversion therapy.
The order prohibits licensed therapists from engaging in conversion therapy with minors, and it also prohibits the use of state funds for this practice. It is a significant step towards protecting the LGBTQ+ youth in Kentucky and ensuring their mental and emotional well-being. Gov. Beshear’s decision has been widely applauded by LGBTQ+ rights advocates, who have been fighting for this ban for years.
However, despite the positive impact this order could have, there are concerns that it may not be enforced. The Republican-dominated legislature in Kentucky has a history of opposing LGBTQ+ rights and has previously blocked similar bills to ban conversion therapy. With Gov. Beshear’s executive order, the legislature may simply choose to ignore it, rendering it ineffective.
This raises serious concerns for the LGBTQ+ community in Kentucky, who are already facing discrimination and prejudice. The lack of a ban on conversion therapy means that minors can still be subjected to this harmful practice, putting their mental and emotional well-being at risk. It also sends a message that their identities are not accepted or valid, leading to feelings of shame and self-hatred.
Moreover, the failure to enforce the ban could also have legal implications. If a therapist continues to practice conversion therapy, despite the executive order, it could result in legal action against them. This could further delay the process of protecting LGBTQ+ youth in Kentucky and send a message that their well-being is not a priority.
Gov. Beshear’s executive order is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and accepting society in Kentucky. It sends a message that the state stands with its LGBTQ+ community and is committed to protecting their rights and well-being. However, for this order to have a real impact, it is crucial that it is enforced and supported by the legislature.
It is time for the Republican counterparts to put aside their political differences and prioritize the well-being of the LGBTQ+ youth in Kentucky. The ban on conversion therapy is not a political issue; it is a human rights issue. Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and accepting environment, free from the fear of being subjected to harmful and traumatic practices.
In conclusion, Gov. Beshear’s statement that conversion therapy is “torture” is not an exaggeration. It is a practice that has been condemned by medical professionals and has no place in a modern and progressive society. The executive order to ban conversion therapy in Kentucky is a significant step towards protecting the LGBTQ+ youth and promoting acceptance and love for all. It is now up to the legislature to take action and enforce this ban, sending a strong message that Kentucky stands with its LGBTQ+ community.
