Green Bay Council Passes Resolution Supporting Statewide Conversion Therapy Ban

On July 15, 2025, the Green Bay City Council voted 9-1 in favor of a nonbinding resolution urging the Wisconsin state legislature to pass a bill banning conversion therapy, a practice widely discredited and considered harmful to LGBTQ+ minors. The resolution explicitly affirms the rights to freedom of religion and expression, clarifying that it does not regulate personal beliefs or pastoral counseling, an amendment added to address First Amendment concerns. The council's decision followed recent legal battles, including a Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling that found a GOP committee's rejection of a state agency's conversion therapy ban unconstitutional. Supporters emphasized the importance of protecting the mental health of LGBTQ+ youth, while opponents, including several local pastors and residents, argued the resolution infringes on religious freedoms and parental rights. Despite some council members characterizing the resolution as political signaling, the vote underscored the city's commitment to opposing harmful conversion therapy practices and supporting related state legislation. The council plans to continue discussions as the issue remains legally and socially contentious.