insight - Human Rights - # Survivor Testimony on Conversion Therapy

Survivor of 'Conversion Therapy' in Kenya Shares Harrowing Experience

Q: How can societies better protect individuals from being subjected to harmful practices like conversion therapy?

Societies can better protect individuals from harmful practices like conversion therapy by implementing legal frameworks that explicitly ban such practices. Laws should be put in place to criminalize any form of conversion therapy, with strict penalties for those who engage in or promote it. Additionally, there should be robust enforcement mechanisms and avenues for survivors to report incidents of conversion therapy without fear of retaliation. Education and awareness campaigns about the dangers and ineffectiveness of conversion therapy are also crucial in changing societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals.

Q: What are the long-term effects on survivors of conversion therapy?

Survivors of conversion therapy often experience a range of long-term negative effects, including trauma, anxiety, depression, self-hatred, and even suicidal ideation. The psychological damage inflicted by these so-called therapies can last a lifetime and may require extensive mental health support to address. Survivors may struggle with issues related to identity formation, trust in others, and forming healthy relationships due to the trauma they endured during their time in conversion therapy. It is essential for survivors to have access to specialized counseling services tailored to their unique needs.

Q: How can awareness about LGBTQ+ rights be increased globally?

Awareness about LGBTQ+ rights can be increased globally through various means such as education initiatives in schools that promote inclusivity and diversity. Media representation plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions; therefore, increasing positive portrayals of LGBTQ+ individuals in mainstream media can help challenge stereotypes and reduce stigma. Advocacy efforts at both local and international levels are vital for pushing governments to enact policies that protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. Collaborations between NGOs, activists, policymakers, and community leaders can amplify voices advocating for equality and acceptance across different cultures and societies.

Conceitos Básicos

The author highlights the traumatic experience of a survivor of conversion therapy in Kenya, emphasizing the abuse and psychological torment endured.

Resumo

A survivor in Kenya recounts being subjected to electric shocks, disturbing images, isolation, and drugging at a conversion therapy institute. The harrowing experience left him feeling abandoned and fearing for his life, highlighting the severe consequences of such practices on individuals' mental and emotional well-being.

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Estatísticas

Samuel was sent to live in a windowless room in Nairobi.
He was shown disturbing images and given electric shocks.
Samuel felt drowsy and exhausted due to drugs administered.
The survivor lived at the "conversion therapy institute" for a year and a half.

Citações

"I was not allowed to make or receive any phone calls."
"I felt abandoned and was afraid I was going to die."

Principais Insights Extraídos De

‘I was afraid I was going to die’: Kenyan survivor of ‘conversion therapy’

by às www.opendemocracy.net 02-21-2024

https://www.opendemocracy.net/en/5050/conversion-therapy-africa-lgbtiq-survivors/

‘I was afraid I was going to die’: Kenyan survivor of ‘conversion therapy’

Perguntas Mais Profundas

How can societies better protect individuals from being subjected to harmful practices like conversion therapy?

Societies can better protect individuals from harmful practices like conversion therapy by implementing legal frameworks that explicitly ban such practices. Laws should be put in place to criminalize any form of conversion therapy, with strict penalties for those who engage in or promote it. Additionally, there should be robust enforcement mechanisms and avenues for survivors to report incidents of conversion therapy without fear of retaliation. Education and awareness campaigns about the dangers and ineffectiveness of conversion therapy are also crucial in changing societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals.

What are the long-term effects on survivors of conversion therapy?

Survivors of conversion therapy often experience a range of long-term negative effects, including trauma, anxiety, depression, self-hatred, and even suicidal ideation. The psychological damage inflicted by these so-called therapies can last a lifetime and may require extensive mental health support to address. Survivors may struggle with issues related to identity formation, trust in others, and forming healthy relationships due to the trauma they endured during their time in conversion therapy. It is essential for survivors to have access to specialized counseling services tailored to their unique needs.

How can awareness about LGBTQ+ rights be increased globally?

Awareness about LGBTQ+ rights can be increased globally through various means such as education initiatives in schools that promote inclusivity and diversity. Media representation plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions; therefore, increasing positive portrayals of LGBTQ+ individuals in mainstream media can help challenge stereotypes and reduce stigma. Advocacy efforts at both local and international levels are vital for pushing governments to enact policies that protect the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. Collaborations between NGOs, activists, policymakers, and community leaders can amplify voices advocating for equality and acceptance across different cultures and societies.