Norman City Council Votes To Ban Conversion Therapy

The City of Norman has become the first city in Oklahoma to approve a conversion therapy ban during the monthly City Council meeting Tuesday night. The topic brought out more than 100 people to the meeting who said they were in support of the ban and wanted to share their personal stories.

Council originally proposed only banning the use of city funds for any conversion therapy-related matters when it came to minors but that idea quickly shifted into banning conversion therapy practices altogether. This means any practices attempting to change a person’s personal sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression are now not allowed.

The commission asked council that a $750 fine be carried out for any violators as a way of enforcement.

The vote was unanimous, although two of the council members did voice concern about the city getting involved in people’s personal life choices. More than 100 residents showed up to tell their stories of being part of the LGBTQ community and how they want the current and younger generations to feel safe and supported in Norman.

Norman Mayor Breea Clark said in the meeting “I know we seem like the black sheep, troublemakers, trailblazers in Norman, but people are seeing it. They see that we care about our residents. We make tough choices and I could not be prouder to be the mayor of this city.”

There is currently no state-level ban on conversion therapy in Oklahoma, meaning the state could try to potentially try to reverse Norman’s decision if they choose.