Petition: Ban Conversion Therapy
Ban conversion practices in British Columbia to protect 2SLGBTQIA+ kids
Stand with the BC Greens in calling on the provincial government to ban all forms of conversion practices and uphold the dignity and rights of 2SLGBTQIA+ people across BC.
Conversion practices — often misleadingly called “conversion therapy” — are dangerous, discredited attempts to change someone’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. They are rooted in the false idea that 2SLGBTQIA+ identities are disorders that can or should be “fixed.” These practices cause deep psychological harm, often with lifelong consequences, and sometimes result in self-harm and suicide.
The federal government has passed a national ban, but conversion practices persist in BC. 2SLGBTQIA+ advocates agree: to keep children safe, we also need provincial laws. The BC NDP has failed to act. The BC Greens tried twice (in 2019 and 2021) to introduce legislation to protect 2SLGBTQIA+ kids, but the NDP refused to debate it.
Let’s keep children safe. It’s long past time to close the loopholes that allow these practices to continue, especially outside the public healthcare system.
Add your voice to demand a province-wide ban on conversion practices now.
Petition Text
To the Honourable the Legislative Assembly of the Province of British Columbia, in Legislature Assembled:
The petition of the undersigned, [Name], of [City or Town], states that:
Whereas:
- Conversion practices, sometimes called “conversion therapy,” are harmful and discredited attempts to change a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression;
- These practices cause serious psychological harm, especially to youth, and have been condemned by medical and psychological experts;
- While federal law addresses some aspects of conversion practices, provincial legislation is needed to close loopholes and ensure full protection;
- British Columbia currently has no stand-alone ban on conversion practices, despite calls for action from survivors, advocates, and health experts;
- Previous attempts to pass such legislation in BC have been blocked or ignored by the government;
Therefore, your petitioners respectfully request that the Honourable House:
- Pass stand-alone legislation banning all forms of conversion practices in British Columbia;
- Ensure the law applies in all settings and is informed by survivors and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities;
- Affirm that 2SLGBTQIA+ people deserve protection, dignity, and safety under provincial law.
Dated this [Day] day of [Month], [Year].
Conversion practices are not therapy — they’re abuse. And they’re still happening here in British Columbia.
These practices often target youth, especially those who are already vulnerable. Survivors report long-term trauma, depression, and suicidality. Medical and psychological experts around the world agree: conversion practices are ineffective, unethical, and deeply harmful.
In 2019 and 2021, the BC Greens introduced bills to ban conversion practices in this province. The BC NDP refused to even call them for debate. Instead, they claimed it wasn’t their responsibility, even though all levels of government share a duty to protect civil rights and close legal loopholes that put people at risk.
Five years later, BC still has no stand-alone legislation banning conversion practices. That’s unacceptable.
British Columbia has the opportunity to lead the fight for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, and the BC Greens are ready to do so.
We have consistently advocated for queer, trans, and Two-Spirit communities, promoting inclusive policies, equitable access to services, and protections from discrimination.
We’re proud to have:
- Championed the inclusion of gender identity and expression in the BC Human Rights Code
- Defended SOGI education in schools
- Run multiple openly trans candidates — the first party in BC to do so
- Successfully banned discriminatory dress codes in BC workplaces
Now, we’re calling on the BC government to:
- Immediately introduce and pass a provincial ban on all forms of conversion practices
- Work with survivors, advocates, and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities to ensure the legislation is robust and enforced
- Send a clear message: there is no place for conversion practices in BC
Everyone deserves to live with safety, dignity, and respect — no matter who they are or who they love.
Add your name to call for real action. It’s time to ban conversion practices in British Columbia.