With respect to the move to include sexual orientation in the anti-discrimination laws, no one disputes that the term “sexual orientation” refers to homosexuals and not to former homosexuals.

Indeed, nowhere is sexual reorientation mentioned in the proposed law. By refusing to recognize former homosexuality, the proposal unfairly excludes ex-gays. Yet, the fact that same-sex attractions can be overcome has been proven by Dr. Robert Spitzer’s Columbia University study of former homosexuals and lesbians.

Although initiated under good intentions, when sexual orientation laws are passed, ex-gays become subject to an increasingly hostile environment where they are reviled as perpetrators of hate and discrimination simply because they dare to exist.

To give sexual orientation protection to one group while excluding another is the worst form of discrimination. Please do not pass sexual orientation laws that would be misused to legitimize intolerance against ex-gays.

Regina Griggs

Belvoir, Virginia