December 1, 2021 – The Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) applauds the introduction of Bill C-4, new and strengthened legislation that would ban conversion therapy for all ages in Canada. This bill is the fourth piece of legislation introduced by the federal government for the purpose of banning conversion therapy and is the most comprehensive to date.
In 2018, CASW released a position statement strongly condemning all forms of conversion therapy for all ages, which can take many forms, but can be broadly defined as any therapy with the goal of changing or converting an individual’s sexual orientation, gender expression and gender identity. Conversion therapy is not evidence based, widely discredited, and causes great psychological and socioeconomic harm.
“For years, CASW has vocally denounced so called ‘conversion therapy’ practices as deeply unethical and harmful, and we are delighted that Bill C-4 goes even further than its predecessors,” said CASW President, Joan Davis-Whelan.
Indeed, Bill C-4 would additionally make it a crime to advertise, promote, or profit from conversion therapy, as well as to take a minor out of the country to undergo conversion therapy abroad. With legislation designed to finally put an end to these abusive and abhorrent practices, CASW urges all Parliamentarians to support Bill C-4 to quickly protect and uphold the rights and dignity of 2SLGBTQ+ people and communities.
“We proudly echo the voices of lived experience, allies, and advocates such as No Conversion Canada and many others, in calling for the swift implementation of this Bill. We expect all party support: conversion therapy has no place in Canada. It’s time to make Bill C-4 law.”
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