Curriculum Guide

A Decade Since Ontario’s Ban on Conversion Therapy

Objective: To educate students and the community about the history, impact, and significance of Ontario’s ban on conversion therapy while fostering discussions on LGBTQ rights, mental health, and social advocacy.

Target Audience:

  • Middle school, high school, and post-secondary students

  • Educators and community leaders

  • General audiences seeking awareness and education

Lesson 1: Understanding Conversion Therapy

Goal: Students will gain an understanding of what conversion therapy is, its historical context, and its harmful impact on LGBTQ individuals.

Discussion Topics:

  • What is conversion therapy?

  • How does conversion therapy affect mental health (depression, anxiety, and increased suicide risk)?

  • Why is conversion therapy widely condemned by professionals?

Activity:

  • Research Project: Students research organizations that oppose conversion therapy (e.g., Canadian Psychological Association, World Health Organization).

  • Reflection: Have students write or share their thoughts on why conversion therapy is harmful.

Lesson 2: Cheri DiNovo’s Advocacy and Leadership

Goal: To learn about Cheri DiNovo’s role in championing LGBTQ rights and bringing forward the bill to ban conversion therapy.

Discussion Topics:

  • Who is Cheri DiNovo, and what contributions did she make to LGBTQ rights?

  • How did DiNovo’s work impact Ontario and beyond?

  • Why is political advocacy important for social change?

Activity:

  • Timeline Creation: Students create a timeline of key events leading to the ban on conversion therapy in Ontario.

  • Debate: Students discuss the role of politicians and activists in protecting human rights.

Lesson 3: The Power of Personal Stories

Goal: To explore the importance of sharing lived experiences to drive change and foster empathy.

Discussion Topics:

  • The story of Erika Muse: What impact did her experience have on raising awareness?

  • How do personal stories help change public perception and policy?

  • Why is it important to create safe spaces for LGBTQ youth to share their experiences?

Activity:

  • Story Circle: Invite students to share or reflect on stories of resilience and advocacy.

  • Creative Project: Students write a letter, poem, or essay imagining how they would support someone facing discrimination.

Lesson 4: Looking Forward – The Fight for LGBTQ Rights

Goal: To discuss ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals and identify actions to promote equality and acceptance.

Discussion Topics:

  • What challenges do LGBTQ youth still face today?

  • How can schools and communities create safer spaces for LGBTQ individuals?

  • What steps can individuals take to advocate for LGBTQ rights?

Activity:

  • Action Plan: Students develop a plan to support LGBTQ-inclusive initiatives in their school or community (e.g., creating GSAs, organizing awareness events).

  • Group Presentation: Research other regions or countries that have implemented similar bans and compare their approaches.

Resources for Educators and Students:

  • Links to mental health support services for LGBTQ youth

  • Organizations: Egale Canada, The Trevor Project, Rainbow Health Ontario

  • Videos and articles about Cheri DiNovo’s advocacy and the passage of the bill

Conclusion: This curriculum guide offers an opportunity to reflect on the progress made since Ontario’s ban on conversion therapy while encouraging critical thinking, empathy, and action toward a more inclusive and equitable society.