In a world that often remains silent about the traumatic experiences faced by countless queer individuals, the issue of conversion therapy continues to linger as a stark reminder of the challenges that persist. Despite its profound and often devastating impact, mainstream media has yet to fully explore the depths of this abhorrent practice that seeks to change LGBTQ+ individuals’ sexuality or gender identity, under the pretense of “curing” them. Shockingly, conversion therapy remains legal in various countries, including the UK and the US, perpetuating its harmful effects on vulnerable lives.
The story of Alana Chen, a young woman from Boulder, Colorado, serves as a painful testament to the havoc that conversion therapy can wreak. Alana’s disappearance in December 2019 and her subsequent tragic death cast a glaring light on the destructive outcomes of this practice. Alana’s personal journals offered a glimpse into her life – a life marked by deep religiosity and a desire to dedicate herself to God as a nun. However, at the age of 14, she made the brave decision to confide in a priest about her attraction to women. Tragically, his response was not one of compassion, but rather, he allegedly deemed her feelings a “mortal sin” and cautioned her against pursuing a queer relationship.
The journals revealed that Alana endured a secret seven-year journey through conversion therapy, a process her family believes played a pivotal role in her eventual suicide. While church officials denied the use of conversion therapy, the stark reality of its consequences remained.
In response to Alana’s heartbreaking story, “Dear Alana,” an impactful eight-part podcast series by Tenderfoot TV, was created. The podcast’s host, Simon Kent Fung, embarks on a journey to delve into Alana’s life, exposing the impact of religious manipulation, her untimely death, and the persistent presence of conversion therapy today. Furthermore, Kent Fung reflects on his own experiences, having undergone conversion therapy for nearly a decade while aspiring to become a priest. His personal struggles intertwine with Alana’s narrative, weaving together a story that resonates with authenticity and empathy.
In a brief introductory episode, Kent Fung paints a vivid picture of Alana – a shy girl with a love for fashion and camping, who aspired to become a nun from her teenage years. The “Dear Alana” podcast series, as described in its official synopsis, captures the essence of “teenage rebellion,” “spiritual manipulation,” and the unspoken costs of belonging to systems that remain untouched by accountability.
On the Alana Faith Chen Foundation website, established by Alana’s family after her tragic death, a poignant message is shared. Alana’s desire to share her story through a book finds resonance on this platform, aimed at igniting change and providing solace to those who have suffered religious abuse and exclusion. Her family’s mission to ensure Alana’s story lives on reflects their determination to create awareness and inspire transformation.
The “Dear Alana” podcast series is currently being released in episodes, allowing listeners to delve into Alana’s life, the pain of conversion therapy, and the quest for understanding. The initial 32-minute episode introduces Alana’s mother, Joyce, and sets the stage for Kent Fung’s exploration of her story. Subsequent episodes delve into Kent Fung’s own journey, as well as Alana’s interactions with a controversial priest who encouraged her to pursue her dream of becoming a nun.
“Dear Alana” is more than a podcast; it’s a poignant narrative that amplifies voices that have long been suppressed. Alana’s legacy is channeled into a powerful call for change, underscoring the urgent need to end conversion therapy and create a more compassionate world where everyone can embrace their true selves without fear or shame.
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