Columbia residents urge council to uphold conversion therapy ban amid mental health concerns

In the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, the City Council meeting on May 20, 2025, became a powerful platform for voices advocating against the repeal of a local ordinance banning conversion therapy for minors. As the evening unfolded, the air was thick with emotion and urgency, as community members shared personal stories and statistics highlighting the dire consequences of such practices.

Julia Smith, advocacy coordinator at the Harriet Hancock Center, opened the discussion with a stark reminder of the mental health crisis facing LGBTQ youth. She revealed that approximately 40% of LGBTQ youth in South Carolina had seriously contemplated suicide in the past year, a statistic that underscores the critical need for supportive mental health resources. Smith urged the council to uphold the existing ordinance, emphasizing its role in providing a safe haven for those seeking help. “This repeal would deeply impact the quality and assurance we can provide community members when seeking mental health treatment,” she stated, calling for courage in the face of regressive legislation.

Cora Webb, a queer advocate with seven years of experience working with LGBTQ youth, echoed Smith's sentiments. She passionately argued against the repeal, questioning the motivations behind the focus on trans issues amidst broader societal challenges like housing affordability and economic instability. “We deserve evolution and pleasure and love just like everyone else,” Webb declared, imploring the council to protect the rights and dignity of all individuals.

William Koontz, a family court lawyer, shared his personal experience with conversion therapy, highlighting its damaging effects. He posed a critical question to the council: “Has there been scientifically valid evidence that supports the practice of conversion therapy that would warrant a change in this city's position?” His inquiry was met with silence, emphasizing the lack of credible support for such practices.

The meeting also featured voices from medical professionals and community leaders, including Vicky Ringer, director of Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, who condemned conversion therapy as harmful and discredited. “Every single medical association opposes this because it’s not therapy,” she asserted, urging the council to stand firm against the repeal.

As the evening progressed, the testimonies painted a vivid picture of the stakes involved. Advocates called for the council to prioritize the safety and well-being of children over political ambitions, framing the repeal as a dangerous step backward. “Protecting children from harm should not be a partisan issue,” said Jack, a local advocate, emphasizing the moral imperative to uphold the ordinance.

The meeting concluded with a collective plea for compassion and understanding, as community members rallied to ensure that Columbia remains a safe and supportive environment for all its residents. The council's decision on the repeal will not only impact local youth but will resonate throughout the state, as advocates continue to fight for the rights and dignity of LGBTQ individuals. The outcome remains uncertain, but the voices of those who gathered that evening echo a powerful message: love and acceptance must prevail over fear and discrimination.