California becomes First State in Nation to Ban 'Gay Cure' Therapy for Children

[Shuhered]

79. Good LAW

As a gay man living in Iowa, and over the age of 40, this is good news. I take care of a variety of people and kids just do NOT need any further stigma attached to their already tumultuous adolescent years. My Father, may he rest in peace, was supportive of my stress when I came out to him. After assuring me that he still loved me, he did offer me some 1-800 number to call for a cure to my gayness. In 1987, at age 23, I never made the call ( mostly just because instincts told me that it would be ridiculous). I served in the Navy and was out to everyone--my language skills in Arabic likely helped not get thrown out. I did my job and demanded the same respect I gave to others. I love being gay and all the advantages it accords on lifestyle. One can make a tremendous difference in lives through foundations, monetarily help with youth who often have little or no support once they come out. Friendships are true and long-lasting as well in the gay world owing to the safety in numbers idea.