Statement of Alderman Cavalier “Chevy” Johnson
July 13, 2018
This spring, I sponsored Common Council legislation to ban conversion therapy in Milwaukee. The legislation was successfully passed on March 27, 2018 and Milwaukee became the first city in Wisconsin to outlaw conversion therapy practices for anyone under 18. With the vote of its City Council on July 10, Madison is now the second city in Wisconsin to successfully pass a ban as well.
Studies from the American Psychological Association report that “lifelong effects of conversion therapy include depression, suicidality, and substance abuse.” To be clear, conversion therapy can have wide-ranging harmful, lasting effects on individuals and has no place in Milwaukee, Madison or any municipality in Wisconsin.
I urge state legislators to increase safety for all residents and members of their communities and cities. I hope a bill for a statewide ban will be drafted and brought forward in Madison so that we can continue to work together to outlaw this practice in our communities.
