Pres Release. American Psychiatric Association 1700 18th Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20009 Ref: Mr. Robinson, 202-232-7878 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 12:30 PM, Saturday, Dec. 15, 1973 Washington, D.C., December 15: The Trustees of the American Psychiatric Association (by a unanimous vote with two abstentions) today ruled that "homosexuality" shall no longer be listed as a "mental disorder" in its official nomenclature of mental disorders, APA President, Dr. Alfred M. Freedman, has announced. The Trustees also urged that homo- sexuals be given all protections now guaranteed to all other citizens. Formerly, the Association's official list of mental disorders included homosexuality, listing it as a "sexual deviation" together with fetishism, voyeurism, pedophilia, exhi- bitionism, and others. The category of homosexuality is now replaced by "sexual orienta- tion disturbance" which is described as follows: This This category is for individuals whose sexual interests are directed primarily towards people of the same sex and who are either disturbed by, in conflict with, or wish to change their sexual orientation. diagnostic category is distinguished from homosexuality, which by itself does not necessarily constitute a psychiatric disorder. Regarding discrimination against homosexuals, the Trustees adopted the following reso- lution (by a unanimous vote with one abstention): Whereas homosexuality in and of itself implies no impairment in judgement, stability, reliability, or vocational capabilities, therefore, be it resolved, that the American Psychiatric Association deplores all public and private dis- crimination against homosexuals in such areas as employment, housing, public accommodation, and licensing, and declares that no burden of proof of such judgement, capacity, or reliability shall be placed upon homosexuals greater than that imposed on any other persons. Further, the APA supports and urges the enactment of civil rights legislation at local, state, and federal levels that would insure homosexual citizens the same protections now guaranteed to others. Further, the APA supports and urges the repeal of all legislation making criminal offenses of sexual acts performed by consenting adults in private. At the same time, a This matter has been the subject of much debate in recent years, Dr. Freedman noted, fanned by the organized homosexual community which has vigorously protested the prejudice that derives from classifying their condition as a mental illness. number of psychiatrists, while deploring social prejudice against homosexuals, nevertheless have regarded and continue to regard homosexuality as pathological. But in general, --- -2- Dr. Freedman ventured, psychiatrists will go along with the Trustees' decision in light of the following considerations: First, it is generally acknowledged that a significant proportion of homosexuals are clearly satisfied with their sexual orientation and show no significant signs of psychopathology (other that their homosexuality, if one considers that, by itself, psycho- pathology). They are able to function effectively in society, and those who see psychia- trists for treatment do so for reasons other than their homosexuality. Second, for a mental condition to be considered a psychiatric disorder it should either regularly cause emotional distress or regularly be associated with generalized impairment of social functioning. Homosexuality does not meet these criteria. This is not to say that homosexuality is "normal," or that it is as desirable as heterosexuality. Third, a significant proportion of homosexuals are troubled by or in conflict about their sexual orientation to the point that their social functioning is impaired. They seek psychiatric treatment either to try to change their orientation or to learn better how to accept it and live with it. Such persons may properly receive treatment under the new category of "sexual orientation disturbance." Finally, psychiatrists have ever been aware of and have deplored cruel and irrational discrimination against homosexuals and wish to add their voices to those who would root it out. For that matter, the Association deplores all social stigma, discrimination, and pejorative connotations derived from all diagnostic or descriptive terms in psychiatry such as "schizophrenia", "manic depressive illness", "personality disorder", and so on. "It is our hope and expectation", Dr. Freedman concluded, "that the action of our Trustees will help to build a more accommodative climate of opinion for the homo- sexual minority in our country, a climaye which will enable homosexuals to render the maximal contribution to society of which they are capable". END OF RELEASE Attached is the full text of the rationale paper presented by the APA Committee on Nomenclature and Statistics in justification of the above actions. --- BELLA S. ABZUG 20TH DISTRICT, NEW YORK COMMITTEES: GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS PUBLIC WORKS WASHINGTON OFFICE: 1505 LONGWORTH OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON, D.C. 20515 Congress of the United States House of Representatives Washington, D.C. 20515 April 1, 1976 DISTRICT OFFICES: 252-7TH AVENUE NEW YORK, N.Y. 10001 725 WEST 181ST STREET NEW YORK, N.Y. 10033 720 COLUMBUS AVENUE NEW YORK, N.Y. 10025 Dear Friend: The recent Supreme Court affirmation of a Virginia statute continuing the illegality of consenting homosexual acts came as a shock. to all of us who are concerned with civil liberties. This decision was out of keeping with the Court's many progressive decisions, in recent years, affirming the constitutional rights to privacy of all citizens. Below I have reprinted my statement made in the Congressional Record, along with the editorial from The New York Times which also criticized the decision. I hope that you will find these of interest. Sincerely, Pellizne BELLA S. ABZUG Member of Congress United States of America Vol. 122 Congressional Record PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 94th CONGRESS, SECOND SESSION WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31, 1976 HON. BELLA S. ABZUG OF NEW YORK IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Wednesday, March 31, 1976 Ms. ABZUG. Mr. Speaker, the decision by the Supreme Court on March 29, sum- marily affirming a ruling by a three- judge court upholding the constitution- ality of a Virginia statute which makes homosexual acts between consenting adults a crime is a blow to the civil lib- erties of all Americans. I am disap- pointed that the Court did not continue its tradition of vindicating the rights of minority groups in this instance. Laws prohibiting private acts between consenting adults are being repealed in many States and where they are still on the books, they are rarely enforced. Med- ical and psychiatric communities are re- vising their practices, policies and defi- nitions regarding homosexuals and rec- ognizing their rightful place in our so- ciety. These developments are due to a fuller understanding of homosexuals and the changing views of the American peo- ple, which contrast sharply with the de- cision of the Supreme Court. Their ruling perpetuates outmoded stereotypes, irra- tional fears and unenforceable laws. In the last 20 years the Supreme Court has often played an active role in ad- vancing the principles of equal rights and equal justice for women, blacks, and other minorities and it has generally af- firmed an individual's right to privacy. I am shocked that the Court did not order a full-hearing on the issues presented by this case, particularly since its decision constitutes an invasion of the privacy of millions of Americans and is blind to reality. It is difficult to accept the Court's willingness to allow the imposition of criminal penalties for private affectional preferences among consenting adults. Although yesterday's ruling is a set- back to the struggle of gay people, I urge that litigation efforts continue and that we continue to press for another ruling by the Supreme Court with a full and complete hearing. Efforts must continue to educate the public on this issue and create a climate more conducive to a fa- vorable decision by the Court. In the meantime, activity in the local and State legislatures must be pursued, and we in the Congress must do our share. I would like to remind my col- leagues of my bill, the Civil Rights Act of 1975, which would comprehensively prohibit discriminatory practices due to affectional preferences at the Federal level. I call upon Members of the House to support H.R. 5452, which already has 24 cosponsors, and which bars discrimi- nation in such areas as employment, ed- ucational opportunity, and public accom- modations. Significant contributions have been made by homosexuals to our society. These contributions should not be repaid with the threat of a criminal prosecution. Moreover, it is absurd to apply a criminal label to more than 20 million Ameri- cans. In the struggles for equality by women, blacks, and other minorities, there were many setbacks on the road to victory. The fairmindedness of the American people and their concern for human rights must be called upon to reverse this decision. No. 47 --- Lifestyles all people: therefore be it RESOLVED by the 26th Convention of the YWCA of the U.S.A., That the YWCA will not discriminate in board representation, staff hiring, or program participation on the basis of sexual preference. Please note that neither the amendment to our Public Affairs Program nor the resolution indicates support of specific legislation. The National Board of the YWCA is charged with responsibility for implementing and assisting local Associations in implementing Convention actions. The NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN (NOW), 1266 National Press Building, Washington, D.C. 20045, adopted the following resolution during the NOW National Conference held during February 1973. Resolution 144 of the NOW National Conference, February 1973 NOW Literature - - Sexuality and Lesbianism Whereas, women have the basic right to develop to the maximum their full human sexual potential, and Whereas, diversity is richly human and all women must be able to freely define and to express their own sexuality and to choose their own life style, and Whereas, NOW's public relations and communications have omitted references to the unified efforts of women of traditional and diverse sexual experience, and Whereas, Lesbians have formed a caucus in NOW to communicate openly, without fear and hostility, and Whereas, the threat traditionally felt from Lesbianism must no longer be a barrier to open communication between all people, and Whereas, we recognize that women are all oppressed by one common oppression, and therefore, surely we must not oppress one another for any reason; Therefore be it resolved that a statement adopting the sense of this resolution be included in all appropriate NOW publications and policy statements; and, Be it further resolved that NOW actively introduce and support civil rights legislation designed to end discrimination based on sexual orientation and to introduce with legislation to end dis- crimination based on sex the phrase "sexual orientation" in areas such as, but not limited to, housing, unemployment, credit, finance, child custody and public accommodation. (Submitted by Sexuality and Lesbianism Workshop) TO: All State Coordinators RE: The Lesbian Caucus Resolution WHEREAS The National Organization for Women is committed to the principle that all women have an absolute right to full equality under the law, and WHEREAS lesbians in our society are not protected under existing laws, or against unequal access to employment, housing and public accomodations, and WHEREAS abridgement of the basic rights of any woman diminishes the freedom of all of us. THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the accomplishment of civil rights for lesbians be designated as a national priority of the National Organization for Women, and FURTHER that ann'ial funding for the N.O.W. National Task Force on Sexuality/Lesbianism shall be at a level appropriate for a N.O.W. national priority, and this shall not be less than 1% of N.O.W.'s national annual dues. FURTHER that implementation will include coordination of legislative strategies for use on local, state and national levels in order to secure the passage of HR 5452 (the Abzug bill) and appropriate action on other relevant civil and criminal legislation. Under guidelines provided by the National Task Force on Sexuality/Lesbianism efforts to implement this resolution will be undertaken at all levels. FURTHER that a full report on the national activ ties and accomplishments of the National Organization for Women on the implementation of this resolution shall be presented by the President of N.O.. during a regular plenary session of the next N.O.W. National Conference. 65 --- The New York Times Founded in 1851 ADOLPH S. OCHS, Publisher 1896-1935 ARTHUR HAYS SULZBERGER, Publisher 1935-1961 ORVIL E. DRYFOOS, Publisher 1961-1963 ARTHUR OCHS SULZBERGER Publisher JOHN B. OAKES, Editorial Page Editor A. H. RASKIN, Assistant Editorial Page Editor A. M. ROSENTHAL, Managing Editor SEYMOUR TOPPING, Assistant Managing Editor MAX FRANKEL, Sunday Editor JACK ROSENTHAL, Assistant Sunday Editor • CHARLOTTE CURTIS, Associate Editor CLIFTON DANIEL, Associate Editor TOM WICKER, Associate Editor WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31, 1976 The Right of Privacy The decision of the United States Supreme Court that in effect upheld the constitutionality of an ancient Virginia statute on private sexual practices was retro- gressive enough; but it was made worse by the way in which the Court chose to reach that conclusion. Without hearing oral argument, without writing an opinioh, the Court summarily affirmed the findings of a lower Federal court-which was of course its legal right to do, but not its social obligation. Given the importance of the question of personal privacy in the context of the period in which we live, the Supreme Court would have been more courageous and in fact socially-if not legally-more responsible had it done what three of the nine justices wanted it to do: refrain from passing on the case unti: the entire bench had heard argument on this important constitu- tional issue that simply will not go away. There was a time not so far distant when the United States Supreme Court was the staunch and ultimate defender of civil rights and liberties; there was a time when the Court alone, of the three great branches at the apex of power in Washington, systematically served as protector of the individual citizen against undue intrusion of government into private and personal affairs. But, as we noted in these columns only two days ago, the Court seems clearly to be beating a path of retreat from its once proud forward position in this delicate and difficult area of the relationship between citizen and state. It may indeed be reflecting a gradual lessening of concern for such matters on the part of the American public. If so, that is bad news for the country and for the future. The Virginia case itself rested on a statute nearly 200 years old prohibiting a variety of unconventional sexual acts, including some kinds of heterosexual ac- tivity. The issue in dispute, however, affected only homo- sexual relations between consenting adults in private. The constitutional right to privacy had been steadily extended by the Supreme Court, until quite recently, under protection of what former Justice William O. Douglas called "the penumbra of the Bill of Rights." It is this doctrine that the present Court has so sharply restricted, disregarding the sage comment of a dissenting judge of the court below: "Every individual has a right to be free from unwarranted governmental intrusion into into one's decisions on private matters of intimate concern." --- AFT American Federation of Teachers 11 Dupont Circle, N.W. Washington, D. C. 20036 (202) 797-4400 AFL-CIO July 31, 1978 ALBERT SHANKER The Reverend William E. Hibbs Chairman-Co-Executive Director National Ecumenical Coalition, Inc. Georgetown Station Post Office Box 3554 Washington, D.C. 20007 Dear Reverend Hibbs: As requested in your recent letter we are happy to restate our resolution which was adopted as AFT policy by the AFT Executive Council in 1970. "DISCRIMINATION AGAINST HOMOSEXUALS DENOUNCED" "Whereas, Whereas, Resolved, professional people insist that they be judged on the basis of professional and not personal criteria; and it is the responsibility of trade unions to provide job protection from all forms of discrimination that is not based on performance such as race, color, sex, religion, age, or ethnic origin%;B be it that the American Federation of Teachers protests any personnel actions taken against any teacher merely because he or she practices homosexual behavior in private life." Sincerely, ES/klm opeiu#2 aflcio Albert Shanker President President --- ustice Deace committee •Priest Senate. Madison FEB 19 REC'D Feb. 17, 1981 David E. Clarenbach, State Representative Madison, Wi Dear David, I have your letter of Feb. 12 requesting endorsement of the sexual consent legislation. It seems to me there is considerable "popular" minsconception about the proposal and I thought your explanation- or the- explanation which you included, specified some of the areas commonly misunderstood. At the next meeting of the Justice & Peace committee we have three large agenda items, one of which may be of interest to you. Integrity/Dignity of Madison has requested our committee and the Senate of Priests, Madison diocese, to issue a statement of concern regarding gay rights. If you have not seen the one issued by the Catholic Coalition for Gay Rights, you may be interested in it, and I've enclosed a slightly doctored copy of it. I think our committee of five priests understands the desirability of issuing a statement like the Coalition's. Personally, I'm interested to see what the entire Senate will do with a statement should we present one. I doubt we would do our cause much good by giving our endorsement as a requester of introduction" at this point. Good luck on your efforts. all good wishes, Tony Fr. Ton Schumacher, Chm. 651 N. Main, Oragon 53575 --- unitarian universalist church of racine and kenosha March 3, 1981 625 COLLEGE AVENUE RACINE, WISCONSIN 53403 Telephone: (414) 634-0659 REV. DR. TONY LARSEN, Minister 632-9886 The Southeast Wisconsin Unitarian Universalist Council (composed of representatives from the UU societies in southeastern Wisconsin) hereby affirms its support for legislation that would ban discrimination in housing, employment, and public funding on the basis of sexual or affectional orientation. Caryl A. Huige, President Caryl A. Huize --- unitarian universalist church of racine and kenosha 625 COLLEGE AVENUE RACINE, WISCONSIN 53403 Telephone: (414) 634-0659 REV. DR. TONY LARSEN, Minister 632-9886 March 3, 1981 We, as Unitarian Universalist ministers in the Milwaukee area, affirm our support for legislation that would ban discrimination in housing, employment, and public funding on the basis of sexual or affectional orientation. Tony Larsen Rev. Tony Larsen, Minister Unitarian Universalist Churches of Racine and Kenosha, WI Dave Roberson Rev. Dale Robison, Minister Unitarian Church North Mequon, WI Jarni Harmony Rev. Marni Harmony Unitarian Church West Brookfield, WI --- TO: FROM: Lee Sherman Dreyfus Governor Representative David Clarenbach Governor's Advisory Council for Women and Family Initiatives September 8, 1981 DATE: RE: AB 70 The Governor's Advisory Council for Women and Family Initiatives reviewed AB 70 pertaining to prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and voted to support the legislation. There was one dissenting vote. The Council is committed to supporting legislation that prohibits obstacles to free choices in employment, educational opportunities and housing. We are supportive of the right for individuals to make free choices while assuming all accompanying responsibilities. There are many examples of individuals who have enjoyed non-discrimination in housing, employment and education who, in fact, are homosexual. They have often enjoyed these choices without discrimination or harassment because their sexual orientation was unknown. They have led exemplary lives in most cases and where they have not, they have been held responsible for their behavior as have other members of the human family. Since honesty is a cherished value of our society it follows that individuals should be able to honestly pursue their goals as contributing members of society without fear and anxiety regardless of their sexual orientation. State of Wisconsin, State Capitol, P.O. Box 7863, Madison, Wisconsin 53707 / 608-266-1212 --- f. AB 70 THE UNITED CAMPUS MINISTRY 608-348-2247 TO UW-P 135 S. Hickory Platteville, WI 53818 SEP 10 RECU 608-348-7530 September 9, 1981 David E. Clarenbach, State Representative 422 North State Capitol Madison, WI 53702 Dear David: DOUG THROCKMORTON Campus Minister Let me state why I am pleased to add my name to the growing list of clergy who support enactment of Assembly Bill 70. In my work as a University Campus Minister, I have often been called upon to intercede in behalf of persons who were being discriminated against as they sought a place to live. Members of my own family have experienced the painful inconvenience and desperate prospect of having no place to live simply because someone chose to discriminate against a whole segment of society because they held a prejudice against a certain occupation, race, religion, age grouping, etc. As a landlord administering rental of a house owned by the United Campus Ministries, a house located next door to my own home, I have felt fear and uneasiness about certain people who have inquired about renting there. And, I have rented out my own house for the summer on several occasions and, again, I know the anxiety of hoping one's renters will be good citizens. But, I have always resisted the temptation to generalize about people and to stereo- type them. I have, too often, had to urge prospective landlords to consider persons on an individual basis. Finally, my work as a pastoral counselor to Gay persons has spanned over 20 years and included persons from many walks of life and positions of social prominence. In my experience, I have concluded that discrimination against Gay persons because of their basic sexual orientation is not only unjust, but is unjustifiable. Informed counselors know that one's basic sexual orientation is not "chosen", but rather "given". It is no more appropriate to stereo type Gay persons than to stereotype and discriminate against any other possible grouping of people. Life in our society is difficult enough for persons whose basic sexual orienta- tion is not heterosexual. I commend you for your courage in introducing A.B. 70 and I will support its passage. Sincerely, Pastor L. D. Throckmorton Cc: Bob Travis (2) PRESBYTERIAN METHODIST BAPTIST - CONGREGATIONAL UCC - EPISCOPALIAN --- 強 Wisconsin Student Association 511 Memorial Union Madison, WI 53706 (608) 262-1081 JAN 27 REC'D TO: Members of the Wisconsin Senate Committee on State and Local Affairs and Taxation FROM: Charles Murn, WSA Legislative Affairs Director RE: AB 70 DATE: January 25, 1982 As the duly elected government for and of the more than 41,000 students on the UW-Madison campus, the Wisconsin Student Association has as one of its duties the representation of its constituents to the state legislature. The tradition of support for civil rights by WSA and the students here has been long and upstanding. Since efforts to guarantee the freed on to choose sexual orientation have been reduced to a fundamental level in recent years, the students on the Madison campus recently strongly reaffirmed their support for this individual right. In a referendum held in October, 1981 that was to in part amend the WSA Constitution to support the right to sexual preference, nearly three-quarters of those students voting voted affirmatively. On behalf of the students at Madison, then, I urge you to support the passage of AB 70. Freedom from sexual orientation discrimination is an integral part of the right to sexual preference. Thank you very much for your time and consideration. For the students, Charles Murn Charles Murn cc: Representative David Clarenbach CM: trg --- AMERIC STAT 7人 Co clarenbach ! American Federation of STATE, COUNTY, and MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES AFL-CIO WISCONSIN OFFICE 5 ODANA COURT, MADISON, WISCONSIN 53719-1167 TELEPHONE 608/271-8850 JERRY WURF President WILLIAM LUCY Secretary - Treasurer JAN 27 REC'D WASHINGTON, D.C. 20036 ARTHUR R. WELLS I.U.A.D. RON DOMINI P.E.O.P.L.E. Director RON KENT International Education Representative January 26, 1982 Senator James Moody, Chair State and Local Affairs Committee State Capitol Room 318 South Madison, WI 53702 RE: AB70 Dear Senator Moody: This organization has occasion to represent individuals encountering a variety of difficulties in the employment environment. While most of our energies are related to issues directly related to our members' jobs, it sometimes occurs that employment difficulties may have a non-work origin. This is clearly the case in racial and gender-based discrimination. The battle against the various forms of discrimination has been incremental in nature. This is due, in part, to increased sensitivity to previously unrecognized abuses that are revealed as our culture changes and develops. The times require that we develop that sensitivity toward the types of discrimination related to sexual orientation. AB70 represents an important step in extending equal rights. It deserves favorable consideration. Sincerely, Dennis L. Boyer Legislative Representative Wisconsin AFSCME Councils DB/ib --- The foregoing press release is based on the following rationale as formulated by Robert L. Spitzer, M.D., a member of the APA Task Force on Nomenclature and Statis- tics. June 7, 1973 A Proposal About Homosexuality and the APA Nomenclature: Homosexuality as one Form of Sexual Behavior and Sexual Orientation Disturbance as a Psychiatric Disorder. by Robert L, Spitzer, M.D. Controversy rages as to whether homosexuality should be regarded as a patho- logical deviation of normal sexual development or as a normal variant of the human potential for sexual response. Recently, this controversy has focused on the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental (DSM-II) where homosexuality is listed as an official diagnosis in the section on Sexual deviations. Those The proponents of the view that homosexuality is a normal variant of human sexuality argue for the elimination of any reference to homosexuality in a manual of psychiatric disorders because it is scientifically incorrect, encourages an adversary relationship between psychiatry and the homosexual community, and is misused by some people outside of our profession who wish to deny civil rights to homosexuals. who argue that homosexuality is a pathological disturbance in sexual development assert that to remove homosexuality from the nomenclature would be to give official sanction to this form of deviant sexual development, would be a cowardly act of succumbing to the pressure of a small but vocal band of activist homosexuals who defensively attempt to prove that they are not sick, and would tend to discourage homosexuals from seeking much-needed treatment. When all of the arguments are carefully examined, a few simple statements can be made with which hardly anyone can disagree. 1) Homosexuality refers to an interest in sexual relations or contact with members of the same sex. Some experts in our field believe that predominant or exclusive homo- sexuality is pathological; other experts believe it a normal variant. (OVER) --- -2- 2) A significant proportion of homosexuals are apparently satisfied with their sexual orientation, show no significant signs of manifest psychopathology (other than their homosexuality, if this is considered by itself psychopathology), and are able to function quite effectively. These individuals may never come for treatment, or they may be seen by a psychiatrist because of external pressure (e.g., court referral, family insistence) or because of other problems requiring psychiatric help (e.g., depression, alcoholism). 3) A significant proportion of homosexuals are quite bothered by, in conflict with, or wish to change their sexual orientation. There is debate within our pro- fession as to why this is so. Some argue that it is an inevitable result of the underlying conflicts that cause homosexual behavior in the first place, while others argue that it is derived from a host of social and cultural pressures that have been Nonetheless, some of these individuals come voluntarily for treatment, either to be able to accept their sexual feelings towards members of the same sex, or to increase their capacity for sexual arousal by members of the opposite sex. internalized. 4) Modern methods of treatment enable a siginficant proportion of homosexuals who wish to change their sexual orientation to do. At the same time, homosexuals who are bothered by or in conflict with their sexual feelings but who are either uninter- ested in changing, or unable to change, their sexual orientation can be helped to accept themselves as they are and to rid themselves of self-hatred. Decisions about the labeling problem in DSM-II require an understanding of the function of a manual of mental disorders. Its purpose, as its name clearly implies, is to list and define mental (psychiatric) disorders. Its purpose is not to list and describe all of the forms of human psychological functioning which are judged by the profession or some members of the profession as less than optimal. Nor is its purpose to imply certainty about the nature of conditions when there is not a concensus in the profession. (OVER) --- -3- For a mental or psychiatric condition to be considered a psychiatric disorder, it must either regularly cause subjective distress, or regularly be associated with some generalized impairment in social effectiveness or functioning. With the excep- tion of homosexuality (and perhaps some of the other sexual deviations when in a mild form, such as voyeurism), all of the other mental disorders in DSM-II fulfill either of these two criteria. (While one may argue that the personality disorders are an exception, on reflection it is clear that it is inappropriate to make a diagnosis of a personality disorder merely because of the presence of certain typical personality traits which cause no subjective distress or impairment in social functioning). Clearly homosexuality, per se, does not meet the requirements for a psychiatric dis- order since, as noted above, many homosexuals are quite satisfied with their sexual orientation and demonstrate no generalized impairment in social effectiveness or functioning. The only way that homosexuality could therefore be considered a psychiatric dis- order would be the criteria of failure to function heterosexuality, which is considered optimal in our society and by many members of our profession. However, if failure to function optimally in some important area of life as judged by either society or the profession is sufficient to indicate the presence of a psychiatric disorder, then we will have to add to our nomenclature the following conditions: celibacy (failure to function optimally sexually), revoluntionary behavior (irrational defiance of social norms), religious function (dogmatic and rigid adherence to religious doctrine), racism (irrational hatred of certain groups), vegetarianism (unnatural avoidance of carniverous behavior), and male chauvinism (irrational belief in the inferiority of women). If homosexuality per se does not meet the criteria for a psychiatric disorder, what is it? Descriptively, it is one form of sexual behavior. Our profession need not (OVER) --- -4- now agree on its origin, significance, and value for human happiness when we ack- nowledge that by itself it does not meet the requirements for a psychiatric disorder. Similarly, by no longer listing it as a psychiatric disorder we are not saying that it is "normal" or as valuable as heterosexuality. Having suggested that homosexuality per se is not a psychiatric disorder, what about those homosexuals who are troubled by or dissatisfied with their homosexual feelings or behavior? These individuals have a psychiatric condition by the criterion of subjective distress, whether or not they seek professional help.. It is proposed that this condition be given a new diagnostic category defined as follows: "Sexual orientation disturbance". "This is for individuals whose sexual interests are directed primarily toward people of the same sex and who are either bothered by, in conflict with, or wish to change their sexual orientation. This diagnostic category is distin- guished from homosexuality, which by itself does not constitute a psychiatric disorder. Homosexuality per se is a form of sexual behavior and, with other forms of sexual be- havior which are not by themselves psychiatric disorders, are not listed in this nomenclature". It is further propsed that this category replace, in subsequent printings of DSM-II, the currently undefined category Homosexuality, and that for purposes of con- tinuity and since Sexual orientation disturbance is a subset of the category Homo- sexuality, it use the same code number, 302.0. As is customary for other diagnostic ICD terms not to be used in this country, the term homosexuality will appear following the American term, Sexual orientation disturbance, in brackets [Homosexuality]. What will be the effect of carrying out such a proposal!? No doubt, homosexual activist groups will claim that psychiatry has at last recognized that homosexuality is as "normal" as heterosexuality. They will be wrong. In removing homosexuality per se from the nomenclature we are only recognizing that by itself homosexuality does not meet the criteria for being considered a psychiatric disorder. We will in no way be aligning ourselves with any particular viewpoint regarding the etiology or desira- (OVER) --- -5- bility of homosexual behavior. By creating a new category, Sexual orientation disturbance, we will be applying a label only to those homosexuals who are in some way bothered by their sexual orien- tation, some of whom may come to us for help. We will no longer insist on a label of sickness for individuals who insist that they are well and who demonstrate no generalized impairment in social effectiveness. We will thus help to answer the charge of some members of our own profession, who claim that mental illness is a myth and that by labeling individuals we are merely acting as agents of social control. Furthermore, we will be removing one of the justifications for the denial of civil rights to individuals whose only crime is that their sexual orientation is to members of the same sex. In the past, homosexuals have been denied civil rights in many areas of life on the ground that because they suffer from a "mental illness" the burden of proof is on them to demonstrate their competence, reliability or mental stability. (By linking the removal of homosexuality from the diagnostic nomenclature with an affirmation of the civil rights of homosexuals, no implication is intended justifying the irrational denial of civil rights to individuals who do suffer from true psychiatric disorders). This revision in the nomenclature provides the possibility of finding a homosexual to be free of psychiatric disorder, and provides a means to diagnose a mental disorder whose central feature is conflict about homosexual behavior. Therefore, this change should in no way interfere with or embarrass those dedicated psychiatrists and psycho- analysts who have devoted themselves to understanding and treating those homosexuals who have been unhappy with their lot. They, and others in our field, will continue to try to help homosexuals who suffer from what we can new refer to as Sexual orientation disturbance, helping the patient accept or live with his current sexual orientation, or, if he desires, helping him to change it. --- 24 The National Federation of Priests' Councils is the largest association of Roman Catholic Priests in the United States. NATIONAL FEDERATION OF PRIESTS' COUNCILS House of Delegates Meeting San Francisco, March 17-21, 1974 Resolution on Civil Rights of Homosexual Persons WHEREAS a significant minority in this country is homosexual in orientation and/or behavior;B and WHEREAS gay persons have been the target of severe discrimination by society and in particular by the legal branch and other arms of government, and WHEREAS present laws and governmental practices regarding employment and prosecution of homosexuals are based on certain assumptions about the nature of homosexuality in general and the danger of homosexuals in particular and WHEREAS a number of gay persons having children of their own, or involved in the education of children are many times denied the opportunity to raise and educate their children because they are homosexual in orientation, in spite of their parental or professional abilities%3 BE IT RESOLVEI that the National Federation of Priests' Councils hereby declare its opposition to all civil laws which make consentual homosexual acts between adults a crime and thus urges their repeal; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the NFPC also express its opposition to homosexuality as such being the basis of discrimination against homosexuals ir employment, governmental service, housing and child rearing involving natural or adoptive parents. --- 1944 OCIATION American Psychiatric Association FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE American Psychiatric Association 1700 18th St., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20009 March 25, 1975 9+30 A.M Contact: Mr. Robinson or Mr. Gant (202) 232-7878 Washington, D.C., March 25: -- The following is the text of an open letter released at the press conference of Congresswoman Bella Abzug. The letter was released today by John P. Spiegel, President of the American Psychiatric Association, as a reply to an inquiry from Dr. Bruce Voeller of the National Gay Task Force: Dear Doctor Voeller: In response to your query about the position of the American Psychiatric Association on the rights of members of the gay community, I would like to share with you some of my thoughts on this subject. Legislation of the sort you are discussing with members of Congress and of state legislatures is in accord with the recommendations of the Board of Trustees of the American Psychiatric Association, as well as the members of the Association, as determined by referendum vote of the entire membership. Because of growing awareness of scholarly evidence concerning homosexuality, professional attitudes toward homosexuality have undergone revision. The recent vote of members of the American Psychiatric Association to exclude homosexuality from the list of mental illnesses and disorders is a reflection of these changes. The American Psychiatric Association also adopted the following resolution and is fully committed to furthering its implementation. Whereas homosexuality per se implies no impairment in judgment, stability, reliability, or general social or vocational capabilities, therefore, be it resolved, that the American Psychiatric Association deplores all public and private discrimination against homosexuals in such areas as employment, housing, public accommodation, and licensing, and declares that no burden of proof of such judgment, capacity, or reliability shall be placed upon homosexuals greater than that imposed on any other persons. Further, the APA supports and urges the enactment of civil rights legislation at local, state, and federal levels that would offer homosexual citizens the same protections now guaranteed to others on the basis of race, creed, color, etc. Further, the APA supports and urges the repeal of all discriminatory legislation singling out homosexual acts by consenting adults in private. I realize that many lay persons are concerned about the hiring of homosexuals as teachers. These concerns are the product of misunderstanding, not of scientific knowledge. Some, for instance, have feared that homosexual teachers might affect the sexual orientation of their students. There is no evidence to support this thesis, nor is there evidence to believe that seduction of a student by a homosexual teacher is any more likely to occur than heterosexual seduction. Discrimination on the basis of sexual or affectional preference--like all forms of discrimination--is not only morally wrong, but results in tremendous waste of our human resources. Many fine teachers-from Socrates on-have been homosexuals. There are many homosexual teachers in our school systems now, but they are forced to live in fear of being "found out"--at considerable psychological cost to themselves and in turn to society. Others stay out of the teaching profession because they fear exposure. This situation should be remedied. A teacher should be judged on the basis of professional competence, not on the basis of personal lifestyle or sexual preference. I hope very much that legislation will be enacted to end a cruel and wasteful form of discrimination that is based on prejudices rather than on scientific knowledge. John P. Spiegel, M.D. President, American Psychiatric Association --- LLOYD A. BARBEE REPRESENTATIVE 18th District Capitol Office Address: Room 329 West Madison, Wisconsin 53702 Telephone: (608) 266-3787 Milwaukee Office Address: 152 West Wisconsin Avenue Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53203 Telephone: (414) 273-5755 WISCONSIN LEGISLATURE ASSEMBLY CHAMBER MADISON 53702 CHAIRMAN: Committee on Judiciary MEMBER: Committee on Transportation Judicial Council Council on Criminal Justice December 29, 1975 State Representative David E. Clarenbach 112 North - State Capitol Madison, Wisconsin 53702 Dear David: Thanks for your letter of December 15. Your information on Assembly Bill 139 will be put to constructive use. I'll We should discuss strategy on Senate Bill 14. contact you at the beginning of the year, if I am in town, prior to holding a hearing on this measure. Liberals from the Law School and the Legislative Council still feel the bill should be passed in its present I do not consider form, un amended; otherwise, it will die. it alive in light of the present law and palpable injustices to heterosexuals and homosexuals alike. Best wishes for a Happy New Year. LAB:rs Justice for all al LLOYD A. BARBEE State Representative 18th Assembly District This is 100% Recycled Paper ---