Intro To start this series of posts, here is a definition of "gaslighting" that I really appreciate. Gaslighting is a colloquialism, loosely defined as making someone question their own realityThe term may also be used to describe a person (a "gaslighter") who presents a false narrative to another group or person which leads them to doubt their... Continue Reading →
During a long formative season at Exodus International, we thought when it came to reparative therapy (known today as conversion therapy), that it was the answer to take us from backrooms of churches to a greater place of legitimacy in the church and with the culture. We had also hoped it would further distinguish us... Continue Reading →
For over 22 years in the ex-gay/conversion ministry world, I was told directly or had personal fears that certain things would happen if I ever "embraced being gay" again. I am going to put three of these accusations and personal fears in quotes (below) and then address each one directly: "If you dare darken the... Continue Reading →
The language that conversion therapy groups, especially exgay ministries, can be confounding, confusing, and in some cases frustratingly offensive. Friends suggested that I write a post explaining exgay-speak, seeing as I helped coin some of it back in the day and spoke it for over two decades. So here is an abridged list of phrases,... Continue Reading →
Trigger Warning for Survivors: This article, while careful writing was used in a way to try and protect survivors of conversion therapy, it is still going to possibly trigger readers who are survivors. If you decide to read, you may remember experiences with people described in one or more of the below groups. Please take... Continue Reading →
Next Wednesday, Pray Away will have its world premiere at the Tribeca Film festival. In the film, I share my unique point-of-view of ex-gay ministry (aka conversion therapy) as the former Executive Vice President of Exodus International, as do my friends, predecessors and former colleagues: Julie Rodgers, Yvette Schneider, John Paulk, Michael Bussee, and others. I share... Continue Reading →
That Ryan Murphy and Jason Blum are quite popular fellas. I am still pinching myself after the news of these two powerhouse super-creatives picked up Pray Away, and it will be airing internationally on Netflix sometime in August. I have to say, as a long time fan of both of these guys, a wee bit... Continue Reading →
