Apple pulls gay ‘cure’ app

By Jon Fairbanks, 365gay contributor
03.23.2011 11:35am EDT

Apple has removed a controversial iPhone app following an outcry from the LGBT community and a petition signed by more than 150,000 people.

Exodus International created the app which aims to help gay people become straight through the teachings of the Bible.

The LGBT non-profit Truth Wins Out started the petition on Change.org calling for Apple to pull the app.

Wayne Besen, executive director of Truth Wins Out, applauded the company’s response.

“Apple made a wise and responsible decision to dump an offensive app that demonized gay and lesbian people,” Besen said.  “The real winners today are LGBT youth who are safer and less at risk for receiving Exodus’ malice and misinformation.”

In an interview with Fox News, Jeff Buchanan, a spokesperson for Exodus International says the app isn’t as controversial as critics claim.

“It’s being touted as a gay cure app, and nothing could be further from the truth,” Buchanan said. “We present a redemptive, biblical world view on sexuality … it’s a message of love and acceptance of those that are struggling with same-sex attraction.”

Last fall Apple pulled the anti-gay Manhattan Declaration app when activists submitted a petition signed by 7,000 people.