Documentary 'Pray Away' Exposes the Dangers of Conversion Therapy on the LGBTQ+ Community

Netflix’s documentary Pray Away, directed by Kristine Stolakis, unveils the troubling history and harmful effects of conversion therapy, a practice that once thrived within church communities. It explores how this discredited approach aimed to “pray the gay away,” showcasing the experiences of former leaders of Living Hope Ministries and Exodus International. The film also follows a man who claims to have detransitioned after finding faith and now seeks to “save” others in the queer community. While Pray Away contained moments that were almost absurd—stemming from the lengths people went to convince themselves of a falsehood—it ultimately left a lasting emotional impact, evoking pain and memories that many thought had healed.

The Quest for Acceptance Gone Awry

Emerging from church basements, conversion therapy offered a misguided sense of community for LGBTQ+ individuals who felt ostracized for their identities. Instead of fostering acceptance, these environments perpetuated a cycle of shame and denial, leading individuals to seek “healing” through prayer and faith. The documentary illustrates the tragic reality where the need for love and belonging was exploited, trapping many in a painful struggle between their true selves and societal expectations.

Conversion therapy is rooted in harmful misconceptions, treating queer and transgender identities as mental illnesses that can be “cured.” This premise has been debunked, and studies, such as one published in the American Journal of Public Health, have shown that LGBTQ+ youth subjected to conversion therapy are significantly more likely to attempt suicide. This recognition ultimately led to the disbanding of Exodus in 2013, when many of its leaders, who were also part of the LGBTQ+ community, publicly apologized for the pain they had caused.

Personal Reflections on Pain and Anger

The film stirred personal memories for many viewers, including a contributor who recounted a painful encounter with their mother. During a visit, the contributor was pressured to conform to traditional expectations of relationships. Despite not being forced into conversion therapy, the contributor experienced emotional manipulation, as their mother sought to “pray away” their identity. This harrowing experience reflects the broader issue of how familial and societal pressures can inflict deep psychological wounds.

After watching Pray Away, the contributor discussed their feelings of unresolved anger with their partner, acknowledging the ongoing trauma that can emerge from such experiences. They emphasized the importance of managing these feelings and seeking support, particularly after being exposed to triggering content.

Resources for Healing and Support

For those impacted by the themes presented in Pray Away, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care. Engaging with supportive communities and mental health professionals is essential for navigating the complexities of trauma and identity. Organizations like The Trevor Project and Kindbody offer valuable resources for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts and emotional distress.

The documentary also highlights the inspiring story of Julie Rogers, a former conversion therapy participant who emerged as a voice for change. Through her book, Outlove: A Queer Christian Survival Story, and her Outlove Project, she aims to support at-risk queer youth and foster acceptance.

In the face of adversity, remember that your authentic self deserves to be celebrated. Embrace love and live your truth.

For more insights on home insemination and related topics, check out this blog post or visit Make A Mom for comprehensive resources. Also, explore Kindbody for valuable information on pregnancy and insemination.

Probable Search Queries

Summary

Pray Away serves as a powerful reminder of the damage caused by conversion therapy and the urgent need for acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community. The film not only recounts the painful experiences of those involved but also emphasizes the importance of healing and support.