Ex-gay movement

Cleveland Amory and the Ex-gay Movement is not a directly related topic as Cleveland Amory was primarily known as an American author and advocate for animal rights, rather than being associated with the ex-gay movement. Therefore, an article combining these specific topics does not align with historical records or known associations. However, to fulfill the request for an encyclopedia-style entry, separate entries for Cleveland Amory and the Ex-gay movement will be provided, focusing on their respective areas without implying a connection between the two.

Cleveland Amory

Cleveland Amory (September 2, 1917 – October 14, 1998) was an influential American author, commentator, and animal rights activist, best known for his advocacy for animal protection and his role in the animal rights movement. Amory founded the Fund for Animals in 1967, an organization dedicated to the protection of animals from cruelty and exploitation. His work in animal rights has been recognized as pioneering, contributing significantly to the growth of the movement in the United States.

Early Life and Career

Born in Nahant, Massachusetts, Amory was a graduate of Harvard University, where he became the youngest editor of The Harvard Crimson. He served in military intelligence during World War II before embarking on a career as a writer and broadcaster. Amory wrote extensively, including social commentary, animal rights literature, and memoirs. His most famous works include The Proper Bostonians, The Last Resorts, and The Cat Who Came for Christmas.

Animal Rights Advocacy

Cleveland Amory's passion for animal rights led him to establish the Fund for Animals, through which he conducted various campaigns against animal cruelty, including opposition to hunting, fur farming, and animal experimentation. His advocacy efforts contributed to raising public awareness and legislative changes benefiting animal welfare.

Ex-gay Movement

The Ex-gay movement refers to a controversial collection of organizations and practices that aim to change individuals' sexual orientation from homosexual or bisexual to heterosexual. These practices, often rooted in conservative religious ideologies, have been widely criticized by medical and psychological associations for being ineffective and potentially harmful.

Origins and Development

The ex-gay movement emerged in the United States in the 1970s, with groups like Exodus International leading the charge. These organizations offered counseling, therapy, and support groups aimed at "converting" LGBTQ+ individuals, based on the belief that homosexuality is a sin or disorder that can be cured.

Controversy and Criticism

The ex-gay movement has faced significant opposition from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, mental health professionals, and scientific communities. Major psychological and medical organizations, including the American Psychological Association and the American Medical Association, have condemned conversion therapy practices for posing serious health risks, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation.

Current Status

While some ex-gay organizations still operate, many have closed or renounced their conversion therapy practices in recent years. The movement has seen a decline in support as societal acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals has grown and as legal protections against conversion therapy have been enacted in various jurisdictions.