Columbia Council urged to uphold conversion therapy ban amid rising youth suicide rates

During the City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, in Columbia, South Carolina, significant discussions centered around the controversial topic of conversion therapy and its implications for the community, particularly for LGBTQ youth. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for protective measures against practices deemed harmful by major psychological associations.

A poignant moment came when a speaker emphasized the rising suicide rates among vulnerable populations, particularly youth, linking these tragedies to the potential repeal of the city's conversion therapy ban. The speaker urged council members to consider the moral responsibility they hold in safeguarding the well-being of children, framing the issue as one of compassion and protection.

Christina Picozzi, the executive director of the Harriet Hancock Center, presented a letter to the council advocating for the maintenance of the current ordinance against conversion therapy. She noted that the ordinance has garnered support from various community leaders and residents, totaling 429 signatures. Picozzi argued that conversion therapy is not legitimate therapy but a harmful practice that contradicts ethical standards upheld by professional organizations like the American Psychological Association. She stressed that the ordinance is crucial for affirming the dignity and safety of LGBTQ individuals in Columbia.

Curtis Keesler, a licensed professional counselor, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the ethical obligations of therapists to avoid imposing personal beliefs on clients. He pointed out that the ordinance aligns with professional standards that prioritize the health and safety of minors. Keesler referenced legal precedents that have deemed conversion therapy unethical and illegal, reinforcing the argument that protecting youth from harm is a compelling government interest.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a broader societal debate about the rights of LGBTQ individuals and the responsibilities of local governments to protect their citizens. As the council considers the future of the conversion therapy ban, the voices of community advocates highlight the critical need for policies that affirm the rights and well-being of all residents, particularly those most at risk. The outcome of this debate could have lasting implications for the LGBTQ community in Columbia and beyond, as it navigates the challenges posed by both local and national attitudes toward sexual orientation and gender identity.