World’s First Ex-gay Survivors Conference Irvine CA.
29 June – 1 July 2007
The conference was organised by Peterson Tuscano and Christine Bakke (Beyond Exgay ) and Mel White’s organisation Soulforce (The purpose of Soulforce is freedom for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people from religious and political oppression through the practice of relentless non-violent resistance.)
The conference was held at the same time and same suburb as the umbrella organisation of global ex-gay ministries Exodus’ ‘Freedom Conference’ in order to present another voice and counteract the ex-gay ministries false and outdated assumptions that homosexuality is the result of sexual trauma or a dysfunctional upbringing and that people can actually change their sexual orientation. Only days before the conference, Exodus President Alan Chambers admitted in an interview with the Los Angeles Times there is actually no such thing as an genuine ex-gay. Things got underway with a press conference where several former leaders of Exodus apologised publicly for the hurt and damage they had caused individuals whilst they worked with the organisation. (watch press conference here)
It was fantastic to finally meet up with many people I’ve been in contact with over the years through the internet. Wayne Besen (author of Anything but Straight ) Mel White, Jeff Lutes and Bill Carpenter from Soulforce, Jim Burroway ( Box Turtle Bulletin ), Mike Airhart (The Exgay Watch ) and Jallen Rix.
The conference was a great success and will have many positive ongoing repercussions………and a special thanks to everyone who donated to make this possible. And that means the person who donated $10 through to the person who gave $2,500. The generous response was quite humbling and encouraging to know that so many people see the importance of and believe in the work I’m endeavouring to do.
Look out for a special announcement about ex-gay ministries in Australia in the next week.
Other highlights of the conference were Peterson Tuscano’s humorous yet profound one man performance of “Doin’ Time in the Homo No Mo Halfway House–How I Survived the Ex-Gay Movement!”. Peterson wasted literally $1,000’s in exgay programs being told and believing they would be able to make him straight. And a concert by gay Christian singing couple, Jason and DeMarco. Watch Jason & De Marco at New York Pride
Do you believe in divine appointments or synchronicity?
Above: Film Maker, Lisa Darden discussing her next movie after interviewing me for the film ‘For Such a Time as This’.
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.
I’d prearranged to meet with the heads of the Religion/Faith and Coming Out Departments. Staying in the hotel opposite, I was amazed to discover that the headquarters in Washington is a 5-story building with a staff of 140 including interns. What an amazing commitment to equality of GLBT people in that country.
More information about the work of the HRC and outcomes of our meetings later.
Great post Anthony – and the piccies are a welcome addition. Very exciting contacts and possibilities for the future. I hope you had fun as well as jet lag!
Cheers!
Sue