More than 100,000 submissions have been received on a bill proposing to ban conversion therapy, thanks in large part to a widespread social media campaign. READ MORE:* Hate, shame and redemption: The road back from conversion therapy* Rainbow advocates concerned by churches' proposed amendment to conversion therapy bill* 'Shame': Conversion Therapy bill passes first reading but is opposed by National Party* 'Deeply disappointed': Young Nats call for National Party to support conversion therapy bill* Man exposed to conversion therapy excited the practice will be criminalised for children and teensConversion therapy is when a person or group actively tries to repress or change someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity. Peter Jennings/Supplied End Conversion Therapy Aotearoa New Zealand founder Shaneel Lal says the last-minute surge in support of the conversion therapy ban was probably in opposition to a campaign run by a group of 17 churches. Lal, who had experienced conversion therapy while living in Fiji, said: “It isn't about praying the gay away or fixing the trans. “Every story of conversion therapy ends with a queer person questioning whether it's still worth living,” Lal said.

Source: Stuff September 14, 2021 04:40 UTC