Gay and Evangelical: 'Troubled Teens' at Christian Reform Camps

In the United States, some Christian reform camps employ harmful practices that target and attempt to change the sexual orientation of LGBTQ+ youth. These camps, often operating under the guise of helping "troubled teens," subject LGBTQ+ youth to coercive tactics such as conversion therapy, which is a discredited practice that has been widely condemned by mental health professionals and LGBTQ+ advocates. Conversion therapy can cause lasting psychological damage, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. It is crucial that these camps are held accountable for their harmful practices and that LGBTQ+ youth are protected from such mistreatment.