Conversion therapy ‒ the practice of attempting to alter someone's sexual orientation or gender identity through a variety of methods ‒ has long been debunked by scientists, doctors and survivors alike as dangerous and deceptive. Bans against using it on minors have been passed in 23 states as well as Washington, DC.

On Oct. 7, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a case that could render those bans unlawful and pave the way for countless American children and youth to be harmed. The Trump administration and its conservative allies are proving once again that they’re prepared to ignore, and actively undermine, accepted scientific evidence when it contradicts their anti-transgender political goals.

The case in question, called Chiles v. Salazar, hinges on Colorado’s conversion therapy ban.

Despite its name, the practice has no basis in therapeutic medicine and has been condemned by the medical community for years, including by the American Psychological Association and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

It reinforces stigma and shame around LGBTQI identities, causing many who have been subjected to it to report experiencing high rates of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

A decade ago,

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