A national release of a book that condemns same-sex attraction has sparked calls for media protocols on reporting self-harm. Published by Anglican Press Australia, Sexegis was released in major cities nationwide last month.
The book, which gives a conservative view on homosexuality, has been deemed potentially damaging to Christians struggling with their sexuality.
Michelle Kolev, president of Freedom2b – an organisation that provides support for LGBTIQ Christians, believes that Anglican Press Australia should follow the code of practice when discussing issues that could be of detriment to readers.
‘When things are published of that nature then it is the responsibility of the publisher to make sure that people are aware that there are support organisations available for those that could be affected by the content’, she said.
Writing to the Anglican Press Australia on behalf of Freedom2b, Kolev believes that those who could be distressed or concerned by the content of Sexegis should be provided with phone numbers and contact details for support services.
‘Those people that are struggling with same sex attraction it can be quite detrimental to their state of mind and how they are feeling especially if they have been battling it for a while. It’s a real concern to us when things like this are published.
‘People that come into contact with Freedom2b have attempted suicide because religion and homosexuality is black and white to so many people’, she said.
Anglican Press Australia did not return calls from OUTinPerth before our print deadline.
If you are experiencing suicidal tendencies, call Lifeline on 13 11 44 or Suicidal Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
