GLSEN Statement on Hawai’i Passing Conversion Therapy Ban

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Joanna Cifredo Media Relations Manager Joanna.Cifredo@glsen.org 646-388-6575

GLSEN Statement on Hawai’i Passing Conversion Therapy Ban

NEW YORK, NY (May 29, 2018) – On Friday, Hawai’i Governor David Ige signed SB 270 -- a bill protecting LGBTQ youth by banning the dangerous practice of so-called “conversion therapy.” In response, Sarah Munshi, GLSEN State and District Policy Manager, released the following statement:

“After years of advocacy by dedicated students, educators, families, and businesses, Hawaii’s legislature have finally taken the bold step of becoming the twelfth state, along with D.C., to ban the harmful and discredited practice of so-called “conversion therapy.” Today, Hawai’i demonstrated a commitment to protecting LGBTQ youth, recognizing that diverse sexual orientations and gender identities are a natural part of the human experience.

GLSEN is grateful for the work of countless local advocates that led us to this victory, as well as the leadership of Hawai’i legislators who pushed to ensure this priority was recognized this legislative session. We are excited to celebrate this victory for students in Hawai’i, and we stand ready to work diligently with advocates in all states to promote similar legislation to protect LGBTQ youth.

Special thanks to Dr. Lesley Slavin, clinical psychologist, with the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Division from the Hawai’i Department of Health, who testified before the state assembly in favor of the bill. Also to Causha Spellman and Kaleo Ramos from GLSEN Hawai’i, as well as Josephine Chang and Dr. Bob Bidwell for helping make this day possible.”

About GLSEN

GLSEN works to create safe and inclusive schools for all. We envision a world in which every child learns to respect and accept all people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or gender expression. Each year, GLSEN programs and resources reach millions of students and educators in K-12 schools across the United States, and our network of 39 community-led chapters in 26 states brings GLSEN’s expertise to local communities. GLSEN's progress and impact have won support for inclusive schools at all levels of education in the United States and sparked an international movement to ensure equality for LGBTQ students and respect for all in schools. For more information on GLSEN’s policy advocacy, student leadership initiatives, public education, research, and educator training programs, please visit www.glsen.org.