Puerto Rico social workers endorse Senate Bill 184 to ban conversion therapies

In a pivotal discussion at the recent Senate meeting, the Colegio de Profesionales del Trabajo Social de Puerto Rico voiced strong support for Senate Bill 184, which seeks to prohibit conversion therapy practices. This stance is rooted in a commitment to uphold ethical standards that prioritize human dignity, social justice, and the rejection of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Dr. Mabel López Ortiz, president of the Permanent Commission on Legislation, highlighted the ethical implications of conversion therapies, which are widely condemned for causing psychological harm and violating professional codes of conduct. The organization emphasized that such therapies are not only ineffective but also detrimental, often leading to further trauma for individuals subjected to them.

The meeting underscored the urgent need to address the practices of conversion therapy, particularly those conducted within religious institutions. A significant concern was raised regarding the lack of explicit mention of these practices in the proposed legislation, leaving vulnerable populations, especially youth, at risk. The Colegio de Profesionales urged for an investigation into spiritual counseling methods that aim to change sexual orientation, which they argue can be just as harmful as formal conversion therapies.

The discussion referenced alarming statistics from the Williams Institute, indicating that thousands of young people have undergone conversion therapy at the hands of religious leaders before reaching adulthood. This reality highlights the pressing need for legislative action to protect the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals in Puerto Rico.

In conclusion, the Colegio de Profesionales del Trabajo Social de Puerto Rico's endorsement of Senate Bill 184 marks a significant step towards fostering a more equitable society. The call for further investigation into religious practices reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding the dignity and rights of all citizens, ensuring that no one is subjected to harmful and outdated therapeutic practices.