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UPDATE 9/3/2024: Lorain passed our proposed conversion therapy ban ordinance making history as the 12th Ohioan city to do so!
Let's Ban Conversion Therapy
Conversion Therapy refers to the harmful and highly discredited "practices" aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. These practices often include psychological, emotional, or physical interventions that can cause extreme emotional, mental, and physical distress including but not limited to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts and actions. Our initiative seeks to protect vulnerable individuals from these harmful practices by advocating for a comprehensive ban on conversion therapy in Ohio and beyond!
Conversion Therapy Ban Map
This map provides an easy way to identify which cities and counties in Ohio have banned conversion therapy, as well as those currently considering such bans. It will be regularly updated to reflect the most recent developments and changes, ensuring you have the latest information on where these important protections are being enacted or discussed. Ohio has a total of 937 municipalities and 88 counties, so the number on the left represents only a small fraction of places where conversion therapy is banned. While not every municipality may currently have conversion therapy practices, there is always the possibility that one could appear and operate without legal repercussions.
Helpful sources and sites: WVXU, INTO, Equality Ohio
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Our Initiative's Ordinances
Our Commitment
To demonstrate our dedication to banning conversion therapy, it's crucial that we share our ordinance drafts and update them whenever amendments are made. This openness not only shows our commitment to this important cause but also allows the community to see the progress we are making and participate in the conversation! Below are some key facts about drafting ordinances at the local level.
Facts About Drafting Ordinances
• Consistency with Existing Ordinances: When drafting new ordinances, it's important to maintain consistency in style and format with existing city or county ordinances. This includes using the same font, structure, and legal terminology to ensure the ordinance aligns seamlessly with the established legal framework. Adhering to these standards makes the document more professional and easier for council members and legal advisors to review and approve.
• Legal Language and Clarity: Ordinances must be written in clear, precise language to avoid ambiguity. Legal terminology is often used to ensure that the ordinance is enforceable and interpretable by courts. Drafting with clarity helps prevent misinterpretation and potential legal challenges.
• Research and Precedents: Before drafting an ordinance, it’s important to research similar ordinances that have been successfully passed in other municipalities or counties. This can provide valuable guidance on effective language and structure, as well as insights into potential legal challenges and how they were addressed.
• Community Involvement: Engaging the community throughout the drafting process can lead to stronger support and a more robust ordinance. Public meetings, surveys, and open forums allow residents to provide input and feedback, ensuring the ordinance reflects the community’s values and concerns.
• Legal Review and Amendments: Ordinances typically undergo multiple rounds of review by legal experts to ensure they comply with state and federal laws. Amendments may be made based on this review, as well as feedback from council members and the public.
• Approval Process: Once a draft ordinance is completed, it usually goes through a series of readings and discussions in city or county council meetings. This process provides opportunities for public input and ensures that council members fully understand the ordinance before voting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is conversion therapy?
Conversion therapy refers to practices aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. This often includes harmful techniques such as emotional manipulation, behavioral conditioning, and, in some extreme cases, physical interventions. These practices have been widely discredited by medical and psychological organizations due to their potential to cause significant mental and emotional harm.
Why is banning conversion therapy important?
Banning conversion therapy is crucial because these practices are not only ineffective but also harmful. Many individuals who have undergone conversion therapy report increased anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Major health organizations, including the American Psychological Association and the World Health Organization, have condemned conversion therapy as unethical and dangerous.
What does our team's conversion therapy ban aim to achieve?
Our goal is to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly minors and those who may be coerced into conversion therapy, by making these practices illegal at the city and county levels. By implementing bans, we aim to prevent the physical and psychological harm that conversion therapy can cause and foster a safer, more inclusive community.
How does your initiative work towards banning conversion therapy?
Our initiative focuses on grassroots efforts to pass ordinances banning conversion therapy at the local level—city by city and county by county. We engage community members, advocate for change through local councils, draft ordinance proposals, and provide education on the harms of conversion therapy. Our goal is to create a ripple effect, building momentum for statewide and national bans.
How can community members get involved in this initiative?
Community members can get involved in various ways:
• Attend Council Meetings: Show support by attending council meetings where conversion therapy bans are being discussed.
• Join a Delegation: Work with us to meet with council members, provide testimonies, and advocate for bans.
• Volunteer: Help us with outreach, education campaigns, and organizing events.
• Sign Up: Use our online form to sign up for updates and volunteer opportunities.
• Spread Awareness: Share information about conversion therapy and our initiative on social media and with friends and family.
How are ordinances drafted for banning conversion therapy?
Drafting ordinances involves research, community input, and consultation with legal experts. Ordinances must align with existing legal frameworks and be written clearly to avoid misinterpretation. We draft our ordinances to be consistent with the city or county's established style and format, ensuring they are enforceable and understandable.
What challenges does your initiative face?
One of the main challenges is overcoming opposition from those who believe conversion therapy should remain a matter of personal choice or religious freedom. Additionally, the legal landscape can be complex, and there may be legal challenges based on First Amendment rights. Our initiative focuses on education, transparency, and community engagement to build strong support for these bans.
How does the ordinance enforcement work once passed?
Enforcement typically involves local health departments, licensing boards, and law enforcement. If a violation is reported, an investigation will be conducted, and if conversion therapy is found to have occurred, appropriate penalties will be applied. Public awareness campaigns also help inform residents and practitioners about the ban and its consequences.
Are there any exemptions in these bans?
Yes, our proposed bans allow for legitimate therapeutic practices that do not seek to change an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. For example, counseling that provides support for gender transition or helps individuals explore their identity without attempting to change it is permitted.
How do you handle opposition to the bans?
We approach opposition with respect and aim to educate those who may have misconceptions about conversion therapy and its harms. Through open dialogue, community engagement, and factual information, we strive to build broad support for these important bans.
What impact do you hope to achieve with these bans?
Our ultimate goal is to create a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. By banning conversion therapy, we aim to prevent harm, support mental health and well-being, and affirm the identities of LGBTQ+ individuals in our communities.
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