Billboard Promoting 'Ex-Gay' Conversion Therapy Appears in Texas

The signage was paid for by the group Parents and Friends of Ex-Gays.

Neal Broverman

Neal Broverman is the Editorial Director, Print of Pride Media, publishers of The Advocate, Out, Out Traveler, and Plus, spending more than 20 years in journalism. He indulges his interest in transportation and urban planning with regular contributions to Los Angeles magazine, and his work has also appeared in the Los Angeles Times and USA Today. He lives in the City of Angels with his husband, children, and their chiweenie.

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Neal Broverman

September 10 2016 11:52 AM EST

September 10 2016 12:43 PM EST

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Groups are still pushing "conversion" or "ex-gay" therapy -- which attempts to turn LGBT people straight or cisgender -- and pouring money into promoting the dangerous practice.

The latest billboard appeared this week in Waco, Tex., according to the Houston Chronicle. "Ex-Gays prove change is possible," the billboard reads, with a beaming man's face appearing next to the words.

Numerous mental health groups have condemned "conversion therapy," including the American Psychological Association, and warned it can contribute to depression, anxiety, drug abuse, homelessness, and suicidal ideation. California, Illinois, New Jersey, Oregon, and Vermont have all made it illegal for minors to be exposed to the fradulent practice.

The Waco billboard was not greeted warmly by everyone in the conservative central Texas city. Charley Garrison, a minister of the LGBT-affirming Central Texas Metropolitan Community Church, vowed to hold a Pride event at the site of the sign. Others have countered "ex-gay" billboards by erecting affirming signs challenging the message of "ex-gay" supporters.