Statement of Beliefs

The NEA Ex-Gay Educators Caucus

The NEA Ex-Gay Educators Caucus is a recognized NEA Caucus, not an arm of any other organization. It is an authentic caucus merely working within the NEA.

What is an ex-gay and why do we use that terminology?

An ex-gay is a person whose same-sex attraction has dominated his/her life, and it no longer does. Ex-gay is the terminology used in research and professional journals.

What are our beliefs?

The caucus believes that in same-sex attraction, the feelings truly are real. Most people don’t choose to be gay. We believe that the choice comes in what you do with those feelings.

We are here to present another choice than the one choice currently being presented. Instead of saying that if you have same-sex attraction, you are destined for that pathway and there is nothing you can do about it. We are here to say that if you have the feelings, but you’re looking down that pathway and you don’t like where it’s taking you. Guess what? There’s hope. Thousands of people have changed, each with their own different/personal story of how they came away from homosexuality.

Are we saying that every gay person needs to change? No. But what we are saying is:
1. People deserve to hear all the facts so they can make their own decisions.
2. For those who truly want change, change is possible.

written by Susan Halvorson
NEA Ex-Gay Educators Caucus, Chair

The views expressed in this document are those of the caucus. The caucus has no authority to speak for, or act on behalf of, the NEA.

Last Updated 4-21-05