When you do the kind of work FRC does, the attacks pile up a whole lot faster than the accolades. That's especially the case when you're shining the truth into a dark world on issues like sexual freedom and change. But no matter how fierce the opposition or how disheartening the subject matter, FRC's Peter Sprigg never shows it. He is, what the staff calls, a "cheerful warrior." And earlier this month, we were thrilled that he was recognized for some of the difficult work he does.
Peter, FRC's Senior Fellow for Policy Studies at Family Research Council, was at an annual conference for the Alliance for Therapeutic Choice and Scientific Integrity ("The Alliance") when Dr. Keith Vennum presented him with the "President's Award." On the plaque, Peter is described as "[a] tireless advocate for those experiencing unwanted sexual attractions and a champion for their right to secure professional therapeutic assistance consistent with their personal values."
As some of you know, Peter has been one of the most vocal opponents of state and local laws that would crackdown on therapy options for people with unwanted same-sex attractions. In recent months, Sprigg has written two FRC policy papers regarding what is broadly known as "sexual orientation change efforts," or "SOCE" (often referred to by opponents and the media as "conversion therapy"). In May, FRC published his paper, "The Hidden Truth About Changing Sexual Orientation." In September FRC published another paper, "Are Sexual Orientation Change Efforts (SOCE) Effective? Are They Harmful? What the Evidence Shows."
As grateful as we are to have Peter on our team, the broader movement is just as fortunate. We'd hate to think where the debate would be without bold and articulate leaders who care enough to speak the truth -- and lead more people to freedom in the process. Congratulations, Peter, on an award well-deserved!
