elpais.com
Valencia Archbishopric Suspends Center Accused of Conversion Therapy
The Valencia Archbishopric suspended the Mater Misericordiae Family Orientation Center (COF) on Tuesday following accusations that its president, Federico Mulet, subjected five 11-12 year-old students to conversion therapy, including offering one a pill to change his sexual orientation; Mulet resigned, and the regional government reported the case to prosecutors, citing the 2019 LGTBI Law.
- How did the allegations against Federico Mulet and the Mater Misericordiae COF unfold, and what legal actions have been taken in response?
- The suspension connects to broader concerns about conversion therapy, illegal under Valencia's 2019 LGTBI Law. The Valencia regional government reported the case to prosecutors in July, and the Public Prosecutor filed charges. A lawsuit by an anti-conversion therapy association further alleges that COF participants used medication and experienced self-harm during therapy.
- What are the immediate consequences of the Valencia Archbishopric's decision to suspend the Mater Misericordiae Family Orientation Center, and what is the broader significance of this action regarding conversion therapy?
- The Valencia Archbishopric suspended the Mater Misericordiae Family Orientation Center (COF) due to allegations of conversion therapy. This follows accusations by five former students (ages 11-12) against the COF president and teacher, Federico Mulet, who allegedly subjected them to these practices, including offering one student a pill to change his sexual orientation. Mulet has resigned.
- What are the underlying systemic issues that allowed these practices to occur within a religious institution, and what are the potential long-term effects of this case on the debate surrounding conversion therapy in Spain?
- This event highlights the ongoing struggle against conversion therapy. Future implications include increased scrutiny of religious organizations involved in such practices and potential legal ramifications for individuals and institutions found complicit. The rejection of a regional legislative inquiry suggests a political dimension to the controversy.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline and introductory paragraphs immediately establish a negative framing of the COF Mater Misericordiae and Federico Mulet, portraying them as perpetrators of harmful practices. This framing is maintained throughout the article, emphasizing the accusations and negative consequences without providing substantial counterarguments or alternative viewpoints. The sequence of events also emphasizes the negative aspects, potentially shaping reader interpretation towards a strongly critical stance.
Language Bias
The article uses strong language to describe conversion therapies as "falsely promising," "controversial," and "homophobic." While accurate in reflecting the general condemnation of these practices, this language contributes to a negative framing. Using more neutral terms such as "practices that aim to change sexual orientation" or "treatments lacking scientific support" would offer more objectivity. The repeated use of terms such as "controversial" and "harmful" also reinforces this negative portrayal.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the actions and statements of the Arzobispado de Valencia and Federico Mulet, but provides limited information on the perspectives of those who support or practice conversion therapies. It would be beneficial to include counterarguments or alternative viewpoints to offer a more balanced perspective. The article also does not delve into the potential legal ramifications for those involved beyond the mention of the ongoing investigation.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a clear dichotomy between those who oppose conversion therapies and those who practice them. While acknowledging the controversy, it largely frames the issue as a conflict between those who advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and individuals involved in these practices, without exploring the nuances or complexities of the beliefs of those supporting them.
Sustainable Development Goals
The suspension of the Mater Misericordiae Family Orientation Center, which was accused of practicing conversion therapies, represents a positive step towards promoting gender equality and protecting LGBTQ+ individuals from harmful practices. The actions taken demonstrate a commitment to upholding the rights and well-being of vulnerable groups and align with efforts to combat discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation.