Pray Away The Gay?!

Well, that's one thing one can do while on their knees... but it's also the name of a presentation at the University of Vermont on Friday, September 25...

Author and activist Wayne Besen will kick-off a national 2009-10 speaking tour in Burlington, Sept. 25, at the University of Vermont. The multi-media presentation, "Pray Away the Gay?", offers a unique, innovative and entertaining look behind the mask of so-called ex-gay programs. Besen is the founder of the non-profit organization Truth Wins Out and author of two books including the critically acclaimed, "Anything But Straight: Unmasking the Scandals and Lies Behind the Ex-Gay Myth". He is also known for photographing ex-gay poster boy John Paulk in a gay bar in Washington, DC.

"My goal is to educate people on this important topic in an exciting and memorable way," said Besen, who has spoken at more than 100 leading universities, community organizations, business groups and religious institutions. "This new show is packed with powerful information, yet is very funny. The best entertainment allows people to learn and laugh at the same time."

During his hour and a half show, Besen takes the audience on a whirlwind tour of ex-gay ministry and therapy programs. Audiences will learn the history of these groups, the bizarre techniques they use and the political players that finance their efforts. 

This is part of a one-day conference called Faithful Narratives - The Queer Quest for Authenticity (click here for info). 

Besen's performance is part of the 4pm closing session.

tags: gay vermont  wayne besen  uvm  university of vermont  john paulk  faithful narratives  queer  quest  authenticity  burlington  ex gay  

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