(rdnewsNOW file photo)

By Josh Hall and Troy Gillard

notice of motion

Wyntjes calls on city to support conversion therapy ban

Feb 18, 2020 | 5:25 PM

A city councillor wants Red Deer to show its support for the LGBTQ+ community by supporting a ban on conversion therapy.

Dianne Wyntjes tabled a notice of motion Tuesday for council to support the province’s request that the federal government ban the controversial practice that attempts to change someone’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

“I recognize that this may not be the most major priority for some of our citizens. But while other cities have gone on record about their thoughts on banning conversion therapy, citizens here have been asking ‘Where is Red Deer?’” Wyntjes said.

“While we’re waiting for the federal and provincial authorities to adjust the criminal code, it’s important that we as leaders in our community voice our support for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies.”

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Last February, the former NDP government announced a working group to consider the best approach for banning conversion therapy on a provincial level, following the lead of Ontario and Manitoba.

The UCP government scrapped the working group in May, with Health Minister Tyler Shandro insisting they are opposed to conversion therapy. His press secretary later added that they don’t believe there’s a specific need to address it because it’s not a valid medical practice.

In July, St. Albert city council got the ball rolling for municipalities in Alberta by unanimously directing its administration to draft bylaw changes banning conversion therapy.

In September Rocky Mountain House town council passed first reading of a similar ban. Final approval has been delayed to allow staff to review Edmonton’s ban approved in December that carries fines of $10,000.

Calgary city council unanimously approved a ban earlier this month, while Lethbridge city council considering one.

Wyntjes feels a Red Deer-specific ban would be difficult to enforce because most, if not all conversion therapy is happening “underground.”

“But should we be quiet on health and wellness issues that affect citizens, or should we use opportunities to become aware and educate ourselves against homophobia and action that hurt people?”

Wyntjes says opening up this discussion is part of doing the right thing by an LGBTQ+ population she says is often vulnerable.

“People will say this isn’t necessary, and that it’s just symbolic, but it is the right thing to do so that the LGBTQ+ population knows they have allies. If we’re talking about inclusion and being a welcoming community, we have to walk the talk,” she says.

“This is an equality issue, and one about respect and compassion. When we have authorities such as the Alberta Psychological Association who say it’s wrong, we should recognize that.

“I also see this as an education opportunity for our community because some people won’t even know what we’re talking about when we speak about conversion therapy and how it’s impacting peoples’ lives, but I think it’s an important issue to speak on for the health and wellness of individuals in our community.”

City council will discuss the notice of motion on March 2.