Wayne Besen discuses his latest work with Truth Wins Out in protesting Ex-Gay therapy including a recent trip to Alaska and protesting James Dobson’s induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame in Chicago. “Ex-Gay” therapy survivor, Brian Nesbitt discusses what lead him into “Ex-Gay” therapy, what was involved with the therapy, the failure of the therapy and his life since stopping therapy, becoming a proud out gay man and protesting the work of Exodous, NARTH and other “Ex-Gay” organizations.
Brian Nesbitt, “Ex-Gay” Therapy Survivor
Wayne Besen, Founder and Executive Director of Truth Wins Out and Brian Besen, “Ex-Gay” Therapy Survivor at Dallas Pride, September 2008
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Websites featured in this episode:
Truth Wins Out
Dump Dobson
Other organizations/books/information featured in this episode:
Sept. 07 Dallas Voice article on conviction of Christopher Austin, Ex-Gay therapist no longer available
Brian Nesbitt’s 30-second video, “Ex-Gay Rubber Band Therapy Doesn’t Work”
Brian Nesbitt’s 5 minute, 38 second video, “Brian Nesbitt Survived ‘Ex-Gay’ Rubberband; Aversion Therapy”
Exodus International
NARTH
National Radio Hall of Fame
Prayers for Bobby: A Mother’s Coming to Terms with the Suicide of Her Gay Son, by Leroy Aarons
Hello John,
Brian Nesbitt perfectly explained what it’s like growing up in Clovis, New Mexico as a gay boy. While he’s half a generation younger than me, little changed in that decade of difference in Clovis. Fortunately, we see significant headway has been made for today’s new crop of youngsters.
This change is thanks to gay activism in all its forms. Much remains to be done.
Like many other Brians, when I left home I left to shake off the oppressive values inculcated from an early age. Unlike Brian, I got ex-gay therapy from my church leaders in Clovis. It was improvised, unorganized, awkward, yet very effective in causing psychological distress.
You are right: we’re fighting for our lives – for the lives of LGBT youth around the globe. Religious leaders need to know our true plight of gay kids, and the truth about adult gays’ historically huge contributions to church life. Politicians need to be educated (take the sad example of school-teacher-turned-state-senator Sally Kerns of Oklahoma City, a dangerous case of willful ignorance).
Let’s keep up the fight on all fronts.
Thanks for your podcast!
David Cox,
Paris, France — this ain’t Clovis anymore, Toto…