TX GOP Wish To Add Gay Conversion Therapy To Platform

The Texas Republican Convention kicked off last Thursday and one of their tasks is to rewrite the party’s platform. The current Republican Platform, accepted in 2012, which coins pornography as “detrimental to the fabric of society”, opposes the sale of the morning after pill, critical thinking skills, and strongly disapproves of homosexual and their right to equality. The current document reads:

“We affirm that the practice of homosexuality tears at the fabric of society and contributes to the breakdown of the family unit. Homosexual behavior is contrary to the fundamental, unchanging truths that have been ordained by God, recognized by our country’s founders, and shared by the majority of Texans.”

According to the Houston Chronicle, that portion of the platform has been removed, but replaced with a new section criticizing homosexuality, (read story here). The current draft reads:

“Homosexuality must not be presented as an acceptable alternative lifestyle, in public policy, nor should family be redefined to include homosexual couples. We believe there should be no granting of special legal entitlements or creation of special status for homosexual behavior, regardless of state of origin. Additionally, we oppose any criminal or civil penalties against those who oppose homosexuality out of faith, conviction, or belief in traditional values. We recognize the legitimacy and value of counseling which offers reparative therapy and treatment to patients who are seeking escape from the homosexual lifestyle. No laws or executive orders shall be imposed to limit or restrict access to this type of therapy.”

Conversion therapy, which has been deemed harmful by the American Psychological Association (APA), implies that homosexuality is a choice and a mental disorder. Young Conservatives for the Freedom to Marry, a group of young conservatives that agree , is working toward removing all anti-gay language in the 2016 national Republican Platform.  Per their website, that “all Americans should be able to share in the freedom to marry.”