Group photo from the recent convention

on homosexuality by the synodal committee

We, a group of Copts from around the world, note the recent convention hosted by the synodal committee for mental health and anti-addiction titled, “Homosexuality: Preservation and Recovery”.We oppose the claim that homosexuality is a mental illness or an addicition. We are dismayed that the Church would still participate in and promote such an outdated and harmful ideology that has no place in our church or in our society. Such rhetoric and framework only further marginalises LGBTQI+ members in our Coptic community and outside of it.We believe in fighting against oppression, something that is rooted in biblical teachings to “break the yoke” of oppression. Many of us remember the nature of Christ, who tore down traditions in favour of love, actively spent time with people deemed "outcasts," and specifically condemned judging. We acknowledge that the oppressed in our society include members of the LGBTQI+ community. We condemn the promotion of so called “conversion therapy,” because its harms on LGBTQI+ youth are well documented . An exclusionary and prejudiced society causes and exercerbates high rates of suicide and mental illness amongst LGBTQI+ youth.The framing of homosexuality as a mental illness is an outdated belief that violates human rights. It has been over forty years since the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) removed homosexuality as a mental illness . Since, many medical and mental health practicitioners have condemned the practice of conversion therapy. It is with sadness that we acknowledge that many countries, including Egypt, have yet to decriminalise homosexuality and we pledge our solidarity with members of the LGBTQI+ community who are fighting against oppression and prejudice all over the world. Further, discrimination aganist LGBTQI+ individuals is illegal in many jursidictions around the world where large numbers of Copts live, including in the United States, the European Union, Canada, Australia and South Africa. Conversation therapy is legally restricted and has been condemned by several governmental entities The church prides itself on being “unchanged” from the time of its creation. However, harmful beliefs and practices in our society need to be changed. It is clear from the recent convention that Coptic church leaders refuse to engage with alternative views on sexuality and we urge them to seek further education. Misinformation, and subsequent harm, has resulted in many Copts leaving the Church. We urge the Coptic leadership to acknowledge its role in perpetuating prejudice and violence against members of the LGBTQI+ community and to start making amends for it.We pledge our solidarity with the many LGBTQI+ Copts around the world. We are straight and queer Copts, and we affirm your/our existence and right to live without fear and prejudice. We remember also our LGBTQI+ ancestors who faced an intolerant society and who we may never know about for that reason.We pray that Church leaders will hear our call with open minds and hearts, so that we may all begin to heal.Sincerely,Mental Health Experts, Academics, Community Activists and Community Members