Gay For Life? Apparently so, ‘Ex-Gay’ Superstar John Paulk comes out

[FreeState]

John Paulk was one of the main poster boys of the ex-gay movement.

http://www.truthwinsout.org/pressrelease/2013/04/34493/

In a piece in PQ Monthly, Paulk, who has perhaps done more to hurt LGBT families than any other single person in the “ex-gay” industry, states for the record that he no longer endorses efforts to change people’s sexuality:

“Until recently, I have struggled all my life in feeling unloved and unaccepted,” Paulk said. “I have been on a journey during the last few years in trying to understand God, myself, and how I can best relate to others. During this journey I have made many mistakes and I have hurt many people including people who are close to me. I have also found a large number of people who accept me for who I am regardless of my past, any labels, or what I do.”

Paulk continued, “I no longer support the ex-gay movement or efforts to attempt to change individuals — especially teens who already feel insecure and alienated. I feel great sorrow over the pain that has been caused when my words were misconstrued. I have worked at giving generously to the gay community in Portland where I work and live. I am working hard to be authentic and genuine in all of my relationships.”

While John Paulk is to be commended, after so many years, for finally being honest, Truth Wins Out believes much more needs to be done. According to Truth Wins Out Executive Director Wayne Besen, “It is not enough to simply send an e-mail that says, ‘I’m sorry.’ John Paulk must work to atone for the damage he has done to LGBT families by taking a public role in renouncing and working against the harmful ‘ex-gay’ industry by embarking on a speaking tour to show that he truly has changed. Further, he should advocate for a bill in Oregon that would ban so-called ‘reparative therapy’ for minors. Only then can he start to repair the damage he has done to countless LGBT people and their families.”

[grantcart]

1. kick

[LeftofObama]

2. Too little, too late.

He can't for a second tell me he didn't know the damage he was causing when he was peddling that swill! Something tells me his cash cow from Fungus on the Family, or NOM dried up and now he's trying to milk the glbt community.

[dballance]

3. I sure as hell wouldn't pay to hear him speak or

donate to any organization he's associated with. I live in Portland and didn't know he has a catering company here. Sure won't ever be calling them to cater for me or any business/organization I work with.

[Ratty]

4. "Misconstrued?"

What kind of apology is that? He's sorry people misunderstood him? OK, why don't you tell us what you REALLY meant by the following:

"Homosexuality is a lonely and disillusioning way of life. There is a reason why this behavior has been considered morally wrong throughout most of human history. Can you think of any other form of immorality which has been set aside for a month of celebration by an American president? How indicative of his character and our depravity as a nation."

"To those of you who are parents, I say, "Be aware!" Your children are being inundated with inaccurate - but enticing - messages about homosexuality. Television, movies, music and an increasing number of public schools constantly reinforce the idea that "gay is good." Monitor the influences your children are receiving, and address the subject of homosexuality directly with them."

"It's an honor to be a role model for those struggling to leave homosexuality behind," says Paulk. "My wife and I, and thousands of others, serve as living proof that change is possible. By taking a bold stand against the lies that say homosexuality is biological and unchangeable, we hope to encourage others desperate to escape homosexuality. "The gay activist agenda, which includes 'National Coming Out Day,' is promoted heavily by Hollywood and the media. Focus on the Family believes that 'National Coming Out of Homosexuality Day' is crucial in order to provide the American public with the other side of the issue."

"Primarily, our concern centers on the destructive messages being sent to today's youth. Millions of young people struggling with a variety of issues are being encouraged to 'come out' as a solution to their problems. Our goal is to point teens, their parents and teachers in another direction- -that of an achievable, healthy, normal heterosexual identity," says Paulk."

"We believe that a young person struggling with homosexual tendencies should also be informed of healthy alternatives to homosexuality," says Paulk. "It is irresponsible for educators to steer that person into a potentially dangerous and lonely lifestyle."

[Zorra]

5. Recommend.

[QC]

6. kick