Equality California Responds to Supreme Court Oral Arguments in Conversion Therapy Case

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Chiles v. Salazar, a case challenging Colorado's ban on so-called "conversion therapy" for minors. In response, Equality California Executive Director Tony Hoang issued the following statement:

"The very notion that so-called "conversion therapy" could be considered a form of protected speech - rather than the abuse that it is - is appalling. Every leading medical and mental health organization has denounced this discredited practice because it puts LGBTQ+ kids at risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide. Equality California unequivocally demands that the Supreme Court uphold existing restrictions on conversion therapy and protect the well-being of LGBTQ+ children and families across the nation.

If the Court chooses to undermine these lifesaving protections, we will not back down. We will continue to fight to make sure that no child, family, or community is subjected to this dangerous and fraudulent practice.

California was the first state in the nation to ban conversion therapy for minors - and we will continue to lead. No matter what happens in Washington, we will keep fighting to protect LGBTQ+ youth, support families, and uphold every person's right to be who they are and love who they love."

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