Mathew Shurka's Congressional Bid: A Survivor's Journey Against Conversion Therapy

Mathew Shurka, a prominent activist and cofounder of the anti-conversion therapy project Born Perfect, is running for the Democratic nomination in New York’s 12th Congressional District. This seat, long held by LGBTQ+ ally Jerry Nadler, is now open due to his retirement. Shurka aims to leverage his experiences as a conversion therapy survivor to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and policies in Congress.

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Born Perfect, founded in 2014 in collaboration with the National Center for LGBTQ Rights, seeks to end conversion therapy—a discredited practice aimed at changing an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity. Shurka's activism has led to legislative changes in 27 states and over 120 municipalities, highlighting the need for federal action against such harmful practices.

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Shurka, a sixth-generation New Yorker, has a personal history with conversion therapy that lasted from ages 16 to 21. His experiences included severe psychological manipulation and isolation, which he has since transformed into a platform for advocacy. He emphasizes the importance of representation in Congress, noting that he could be the first conversion therapy survivor to serve.

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If elected, Shurka intends to prioritize a national ban on conversion therapy, the Equality Act, and addressing the affordability crisis affecting his district. He has previously collaborated with U.S. Representative Ted Lieu to introduce legislation aimed at banning conversion therapy, which has yet to pass but is reintroduced annually. Shurka also expresses concern over the current political climate, particularly regarding the Democratic Party's response to Donald Trump.

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Shurka faces a competitive primary with notable candidates such as Jack Schlossberg and George Conway. While he believes his outsider status and legislative experience will resonate with voters, the crowded field presents challenges. Critics may question his political inexperience, despite his extensive advocacy background.

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Shurka has articulated his motivation for running, stating, “It felt like the perfect next step for me,” reflecting his desire to translate his advocacy into legislative action. He has also expressed frustration with the Democratic Party's perceived hesitance to confront Trump directly, asserting, “So many people are worried that the Democrats are scared.”

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The primary election is scheduled for June 23, with Shurka competing against 12 other candidates in the Democratic primary. Given the district's Democratic majority, the primary winner is likely to secure a seat in the general election on November 3.

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• “I never saw myself as a politician,” — Mathew Shurka, Activist

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• “I, of course, want to push a conversion therapy ban,” — Mathew Shurka, Activist

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• “There is a real sense of people wanting an outsider,” — Mathew Shurka, Activist

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• “Concerns about the Supreme Court and judicial reform If the Supreme Court strikes down Colorado’s ban on conversion therapy, “it’s going to be a horrible moment,” he says, as it could affect bans in other states as well.” — Mathew Shurka, Activist

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Shurka's campaign represents a significant moment in the ongoing fight against conversion therapy and the broader struggle for LGBTQ+ rights, as he seeks to bring his personal experiences and advocacy to the legislative forefront.

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