New Jersey has now become the second state, along with California, to pass and have its governor sign legislation to prevent sexual orientation conversion therapy in children. Both Governor Brown and Governor Christie are Roman Catholics and have taken a position contrary to their church's stance on homosexuality.
Both governors are thoughtful individuals in their respective parties and each has taken stands contrary to their parties' bases, as well. Essentially, these men are true mavericks, looking to be fair and just to all people.
Presently, the California law is presently blocked by the courts due to the pending case in the ninth circuit court of appeals, to rule on its constitutionality. A similar lawsuit is being pursued in New Jersey to prevent its enactment.
Studies have shown that conversion therapy hurts rather than helps children who are predisposed to an alternate orientation. The premise in both New Jersey and California's legislation holds that being "lesbian, gay or bisexual is not a disease, deficiency, disorder, illness or shortcoming", and prevents therapists from completing gay to straight conversion therapy in minors.
Suicide rates are unusually high in this age group, as well as depression, substance abuse, social withdrawal and decreased self-esteem. Forcing these individuals to act contrary to their predisposition can also lead to other critical health risks, including high blood pressure, ulcers and other issues that can harm.
Not to mention the overbearing bullying these kids experience unnecessarily. All because they are "different".
It is time for us to stop interfering in issues not related to the direct well-being of our own business. We are not a village, raising other people's children to our own peculiar standards. We are a free, non-interfering society, where each can choose according to his or her own options.
Let's start to act like one.
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