“We’re here today to tell Elder Packer and those in the Mormon Church hierarchy who agree with him that his statements are both factually and scientifically wrong and that more importantly, they are dangerous and are putting millions of lives in great danger,” said HRC President Joe Solmonese at this morning’s press conference.
Elder Packer’s assertion that sexual orientation can be changed has been debunked by both the American Psychological Association and the American Psychiatric Association. Both organizations have concluded that same-sex attraction is normal and that “reparative” therapy – like the kind being advocated by the Mormon Church – is unhealthy and harmful. Elder Packer or Church representatives have not corrected their statements in spite of the fact that they are dangerous and can result in self-loathing and potentially suicide by those struggling with their sexual orientation or gender identity.
“I am personally and professionally concerned that Elder Packer’s statements can be viewed as stigmatizations towards non-heterosexual oriented individuals and groups, and consequently reinforce or possibly increase further discrimination, hostility, or even violence towards non-heterosexual oriented individuals and groups.” said licensed Utah psychologist Kirk Dansie, who also reiterated the professional scholarship that debunks Elder Packer’s claims.
