Nebraska's LGBTQ advocates are working arduously for a series of bills they are pushing to get approved in this week's legislative session - to eliminate old stigmas and move the state into the future.

Senator Megan Hunt has been a strong advocate, introducing a bill that attempts to ban Conversion Therapy, also called Reparative Therapy, which attempts to change someone's orientation or gender identity.

“This entire practice is grounded in the incorrect and totally debunked belief that being LGBTQ is an illness or some kind of affliction that needs to be corrected", said Senator Hunt.

The official added that these types of therapies have been prohibited by several specialists including the national pediatric association, “That’s why we need to stop conversion therapy because it’s meant to “correct the problem” that doesn’t exist and it’s honestly pretty unethical”.

The Senator stressed the importance of LB231 - which would make the 'gay panic defense invalid in a court of law. That's when a defendant uses the discovery of the victim's actual or perceived gender or sexual orientation as a defense to a crime.

“Gay people can marry and adopt there is obviously cultural consensus on the humanity and dignity of the LGBTQ community,” emphasized Hunt.

LGBTQ advocates like Abby Swatsworth, say the passage of both bills will signal to the rest of the country that Nebraska is a more inclusive and welcoming state.

“This constitutional amendment will remove out outdated language much like we removed slavery from our constitution in 2020”.

Senator Hunt says in order for change to happen - underrepresented groups need to seek leadership opportunities,

“The more representation we have and the more diversity we have in the halls of government where the laws are made, the better is going to serve to everyone who lives in our state.”

LB321 will be discussed in the legislature on Friday, February 26, 2021.