Instagram to ban accounts promoting LGBTQ+ conversion therapy

10 July 2020, 14:45

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By Sam Prance

It will no longer be possible to use Instagram to advertise LGBTQ+ conversion therapy services.

Instagram are officially changing their rules so that it's no longer possible for users to promote LGBTQ+ conversion therapy.

Despite widespread criticism and petitions for change, LGBTQ+ conversion therapy is currently still legal in the UK, parts of the US and many places all around the world. The harmful and damaging practice "seeks to remove a person’s feelings of same-sex attraction or change their gender identity". Often children and teens are forced into it by unaccepting parents.

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While there aren't laws banning LGBTQ+ conversion therapy in certain countries, Instagram are now standing against it.

In a public statement, Instagram’s Tara Hopkins, said: "We don’t allow attacks against people based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and are updating our policies to ban the promotion of conversion therapy services. We are always reviewing our policies and will continue to consult with experts and people with personal experiences to inform our approach."

The news comes shortly after multiple public figures and organisations, including Jade Thirlwall, Olly Alexander, Elton John, Dua Lipa, Munroe Bergdorf, Stonewall and Mermaids have signed a letter urging the UK Government to ban conversion therapy. The letter states: "until you [ban conversion therapy], torture will continue to take place on British soil".

As it stands, the UK government is yet to respond to the letter. We shall update you if they do.