Obama Calls for an End to Gay Conversion Therapies

A petition calling for an end to so-called "conversion therapy" was signed by 120,000 people and sent to the White House. It was sparked by the suicide of Leelah Alcorn, a 17-year old transgender person. White House advisor Valerie Jarrett wrote in response, "We share your concern about the potentially devastating effects on the lives of transgender as well as gay, lesbian, bisexual and queer youth." Yesterday, the President responded with a pledge to ban the practice for young people. Sam Ames is staff attorney and BornPerfect campaign coordinator at the National Center for Lesbian Rights.

Photo: Steve Eason