Exodus International Joins Pro-Family Protest
& Asks the APA:'What does gay marriage and Zionism have to do with
science and mental Health'
Global
Network of Former Homosexuals Says: 'Stop Playing Politics & Start Helping
Your Clients'
August
9, 2006
Exodus International
will join several other national organizations to protest the American
Psychological Association's (APA) increasing political involvement at its
national convention this Friday, August 11, in New Orleans. In recent years, the
APA has moved away from its mission to improve the welfare of its patients in
favor of a more political one. The organization has taken on topics such as
abortion, gay marriage, Zionism and approving member psychologists to assist in
the U.S. war effort in Iraq. A protest is scheduled outside the Ernest N. Morial
Convention Center at 9:00 a.m. to be followed by a 10:00 a.m. news
conference.
"While the APA
continues to play politics with social issues unrelated to its mission,
thousands of current and potential patients are being harmed," said Alan
Chambers, President of Exodus International. "We represent those across the
country who struggle with unwanted same-sex attraction, desire the help of
skilled professionals and are instead, being discriminated against because their
personal beliefs do not align with that of the APA."
Chambers, who plans to
speak at the scheduled press conference, notes that the APA has a proven history
of political involvement. In 1977, the APA's Council of Representatives
condemned the United Nations for its position on Zionism and ironically, called
upon the UN to "reassert its ideals, return to its original goals and halt the
destructive politicalization of its specialized agencies." In 2000, the Council
reaffirmed its pro-abortion position by declaring support for a teen’s right to
get an abortion without parental notification. In 2002, it declared the
treatment of homosexuality to be unethical — even if a patient willingly sought
help; in 2004, it adopted a resolution supporting homosexual
marriage.
"The APA's continued
willingness to elevate political ideology above science and patient rights has
resulted in a loss of public trust," said Chambers. "If this institution is to
return to its original mission as a mental health organization centered on
improving the lives of its clients, it must stop playing politics and employ an
inclusive approach that encourages true diversity."
Founded in 1976,
Exodus International is the world's largest outreach to individuals affected by
unwanted same-sex attraction. With over 135 member ministries across North
America, Exodus offers hope and help to the more than 400,000 people who contact
the ministry each year.
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