Conversion practices have no place in Scotland
Maggie Chapman sent to the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Shirley-Anne Sommerville, on May 13th 2024 The Scottish Government must remain steadfast in its opposition to conversion practices - so called conversion therapy - says the Scottish Greens equality spokesperson, Maggie Chapman MSP.
In a letter to the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Shirley-Anne Sommerville, Ms Chapman reaffirmed her opposition and called for the Scottish Government to lay out a timetable for the watertight and trans-inclusive ban that it has consulted on.
Conversion practices are acts which intend to change or suppress someone’s sexual orientation or gender identity.
The letter comes amidst speculation that the ban could be dropped or watered down, following several media reports, the ending of the Bute House Agreement and changes to the Scottish Government.
Ms Chapman said:
“Conversion practice - or so-called conversion therapy - are abusive and cruel. They have no place in a modern, progressive or forward-looking Scotland.
“Everybody deserves to live their life free from marginalisation and discrimination. Nobody should be made to feel ashamed of who they are or who they love, or told that they need to change their sexuality or gender identity.
“The speculation we have seen over recent days is not helping anyone, which is why I have called for clarity from the Scottish Government and for them to publish a timeline for the legislation.
“We can’t undo the damage that has been done, but we can ensure that nobody else has to face such awful practices.
“I hope that the Scottish Government remains steadfast in its opposition, and that survivors of these awful practices see the watertight ban that they have been promised and they deserve.”
