Hearing held on proposed conversion therapy ban

More than 100 people signed up Wednesday to speak to city councillors about a proposed bylaw to ban conversion therapy, as officials outlined what the new rules might look like.

City council unanimously agreed in February to move toward a ban of the harmful, discredited practice aimed at changing someone’s gender identity or sexual orientation. At the time, a large rainbow-clad crowd celebrated in council chambers and posed for pictures in city hall.

Three months later, city staff presented the proposed bylaw to a largely empty room because of COVID-19 restrictions. The entire public hearing took place over the phone as community and protective services committee chair Coun. Gian-carlo Carra tried to co-ordinate the long list of speakers.

Calgary’s bylaw would prohibit city businesses from offering or advertising conversion therapy. Anyone caught violating the rules would be subject to a $10,000 fine, the same penalty that Edmonton city council approved for their conversion therapy ban.

City staff asked for feedback from dozens of faith groups and LGBTQ organizations to help make sure the bylaw was clear.

Under the bylaw, conversion therapy is defined as “a practice, treatment, or service designed to change, repress, or discourage a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression, or to repress or reduce non-heterosexual attraction or sexual behaviour.” The definition doesn’t apply to “a person’s non-judgmental exploration and acceptance of their identity or development.”

The meeting ran into the evening as many people shared personal stories about their own lives, experiences and relationships. According to the city, in addition to the dozens of people who signed up to have their say during the meeting, more than 1,100 written submissions were received.

Many were letters from religious groups concerned that the bylaw could infringe on religious freedoms.

Coun. Druh Farrell asked city officials to address a brochure that a group has circulated in Calgary, saying the new bylaw would limit personal conversations between people and make it “illegal” to say certain prayers.

But the bylaw, city staff said, “does not prevent or restrict religious thoughts or beliefs, nor does it prevent the right to worship.”

City council still has to vote to approve the bylaw at a future meeting.