To Whom it May Concern,

I am writing on behalf of the City of Richmond to express our support of the Virginia Board of Medicine’s guidance, which will protect youth from “conversion therapy,” a dangerous and discredited practice aimed at changing their sexual orientation or gender identity. Conversion therapy has been rejected by every mainstream medical and mental health organization, including the American Psychological Association. Conversion therapy leads to critical health risks including anxiety, depression, decreased self-esteem, substance abuse, homelessness, and suicide. No young person should ever be shamed by a mental health professional into thinking that who they are is wrong.

The City of Richmond passed a resolution earlier this year prohibiting the use of conversion therapy in the city limits and advocating that the Commonwealth of Virginia pass a statewide ban. We cannot allow one more young person to be targeted and hurt by these harmful practices.

It is time to take action and prohibit conversion therapy in the Commonwealth.

Sincerely,

Levar M. Stoney

Mayor