Ok, now there really is an app for everything. An organization’s new app is making waves and prompted a non-profit organization to start an online petition demanding its removal.
The app is called Exodus International and is produced by the organization of the same name. From their policy page:
Exodus is a Christian organization dedicated to equipping and uniting agencies and individuals to effectively communicate the message of freedom from homosexuality, as well as how to effectively convey support and understanding to individuals facing the reality of a homosexual loved one.
The app, which has a 4+ rating from Apple, is said by Exodus to be “designed to be a useful resource for men, women, parents, students, and ministry leaders.” Some screen caps:
Taking issue with the nature of the app is Truth Wins Out (TWO). From their site, they are “a non-profit think tank and educational organization that counters right-wing misinformation campaigns, debunks the ex-gay myth, and provides accurate information about the lives of LGBT people” TWO feels that the app is harmful, as it promotes “freedom from homosexuality through the power of Jesus Christ.” TWO has started an online petition to remove the app on change.org.
TWO is confused by Apple’s 4+ rating of the app, which labels it as having “no objectionable content.”
No objectionable content? We beg to differ. Exodus’ message is hateful and bigoted. They…use scare tactics, misinformation, stereotypes and distortions of LGBT life to recruit clients. They endorse the use of so-called “reparative therapy” to “change” the sexual orientation of their clients, despite the fact that this form of “therapy” has been rejected by every major professional medical organization including the American Psychological Association, the American Medical Association, and the American Counseling Association. But reparative therapy isn’t just bad medicine — it’s also very damaging o the self-esteem and mental health of its victims.
They also point out that Apple rejects racist and anti-Semitic apps, and argues that this app is no different. The petition is fast approaching 95,000 signatures. Apple is no stranger to quickly removing questionable apps, and the fire growing around this one is sure to make them sweat.