Conversion Therapy Ban
Conversion therapy refers to any attempt to change a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. It is sometimes described as a way to “cure” or “repair” a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.
Because of the serious harm shown to be connected to this so-called “therapy”, it is a practice that has been widely criticized and opposed by many professional organizations and 2SLGBTQIA+ advocates throughout the world. At time of publication, the practice had been banned in whole or in part in 15 countries including Germany, France, Mexico, and several US states.
In 2021, the Canadian Government passed a law banning conversion therapy practices. This law took effect in 2022, changing the Criminal Code of Canada to make conversion therapy practices and the promotion or advertising of conversion therapy practices a criminal offence.
This booklet will explain where this new law came from, what the new law says, and offer options for resources and support in Newfoundland and Labrador for anyone who may have experienced conversion therapy or knows someone who has.