The Hidden Harm of Conversion Practices: Ideology, Legislation, and Recovery

In this panel discussion, Sam Sellers is joined by Dr. Timothy Jones, Chris Csabs, and Nathan Despott to explore conversion practices, including both overt and covert forms. They discuss the long-term psychological and emotional impacts on survivors, the systemic nature of conversion ideology, and the challenges in creating meaningful legal protections. The conversation also covers how faith communities continue to uphold harmful beliefs, even without explicit conversion practices, and the importance of balancing legislative change with cultural transformation. Finally, the panelists offer advice on finding safe, affirming support for those recovering from these harmful practices.

We acknowledge the Indigenous people of the lands we have recorded on. Our speakers and hosts are located on Aboriginal Country all across the lands now called Australia and Maori lands across Aoteoroa. We pay our respect to Indigenous elders who are custodians of these lands and extend that respect to any Indigenous people attending our event.