We talk about LBGTQ+ rights all the time, but things begin to get a little murky as we cross over from adults to children. Queerness is generally a taboo subject, even in adulthood—-but for kids, LGBTQ+ topics and narratives are almost always deemed far too inappropriate to be discussed. While children typically begin to learn about important social topics between ages 9-11, they are unable to grasp a solid understanding of these concepts and how to navigate through these social contexts in both an inclusive and respectful manner. Offering them heavy loads of information on queerness at such a premature age could potentially influence them to participate in a culture that they lack the proper understanding of.
Not to mention the overly-strict parents that refuse to accept homosexuality into their household as it does not fit into their beliefs. These parents work overtime in ensuring that the LGBTQ+ agenda stays far away from their homes, believing that media is the primary source of queer promotion. In some cases, parents who face the revelation that their children may be queer or homosexual are unable to come to terms with it, and as a result, force their children to attend gay-conversion therapy where they are trained and influenced by professionals to resist homosexual urges or temptations.
Well it looks like Coloradans weren’t too happy with this as Colorado looked to pass a law to ban conversion therapy performed on children. Officials aimed to establish greater diversity and inclusivity, and to protect gay rights at all costs. Conversion therapy looks to stunt these initiatives, encouraging children to fall in line with the normal, hegemonic views that structure our society today.
A Christian counselor fought back against these objectives, stating that banning conversion therapy would violate the first amendment right by censoring different perspectives and opinions. The Supreme Court backed this decision in an attempt to protect these rights and avoid silencing members from expressing their beliefs. In an 8-1 vote, the Court ruled against banning conversion therapy. Despite the vote, the pursuit to protect gay rights continues.
While I believe that the overexposure of certain topics is harmful to children as it prematurely introduces them to adult themes, allowing conversion therapy because it protects the first amendment almost feels like an absurd double standard considering that it actively coerces children to think, act, and behave a certain way. Teaching children discipline is imperative as it protects them from the risks of a harsh society—but imposing hegemonic beliefs onto them due to religious views and lifestyle choices may actually shy them away from expressing their true selves. While I am all for kids waiting until they are adults to make critical choices in autonomy, I believe that forcing therapy onto them because of their choices makes this whole situation just a tad bit hypocritical if you ask me.
