The Green Party is calling for the Government to urgently prioritise banning conversion therapy, saying it has "no place" in Aotearoa.
On Sunday, spokesperson for rainbow communities Elizabeth Kerekere will launch a petition calling for the ban to be pushed up the Government's agenda.
"Aotearoa should be a place where no matter who you love or how you identify, you are accepted, and no one should be allowed to force people to change who they are through this harmful and traumatising practice," she says.
"Many parties have committed to banning it, yet the Labour Party has indicated that any plan to prioritise is not urgent, with no plans to introduce legislation immediately."
In the lead-up to the October 2020 general election, the Labour Government pledged to ban the practice, which attempts to convert an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity using harmful psychological and physical interventions.
Conversion therapy has been linked to severe mental health issues, including depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is aiming for legislation before the House by the end of the year, but won't promise an exact timeline, saying it's important to get it right.
"If we don't draft this in the right place; if we don't get the law right we won't have the positive impact we need to have."
Where to find help and support:
- Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
- Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
- Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
- What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
- Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
- Samaritans - 0800 726 666
- Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
- Shakti Community Council - 0800 742 584
