Apple under fire from gay rights groups after approving iPhone app 'cure' for homosexuality

 

 

By Daniel Bates In New York

Last updated at 11:29 AM on 21st March 2011

 

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Computer firm Apple has approved an iPhone and iPad application which claims to ‘cure’ gay people.

 

The app, called Exodus International, is targeted at ‘homosexual strugglers’ and teaches them that gay people have a choice about their sexuality.

 

Its Christian makers claim the app gives them a chance of ‘freedom from homosexuality through the power of Jesus’.

 

 

Anti-gay: Exodus International is targeted at 'homosexual strugglers' and teaches them that gay people have a choice about their sexuality and can opt out

 

The free programme, which is available in Britain, was given four out of five stars by Apple, which means it is deemed to have ‘no objectionable content’.

 

But the computing giant is now under pressure after gay rights campaigners started a petition to have it withdrawn.

 

U.S. pressure group Change.org said that Exodus' claims are 'hateful and bigoted' and send out an appalling message.

 

 

Opposition: The app has come under fire from gay-rights campaigners who say it is 'unacceptable'. Here a commenter on Exodus International's own website voices her opposition, top

 

'Apple doesn't allow racist or anti-Semitic apps in its app store, yet it gives the green light to an app targeting vulnerable LGBT youth with the message that their sexual orientation is a "sin that will make your heart sick" and a "counterfeit",' Change.org writes on the petition, which has got 35,000 signatures.

 

'This is a double standard that has the potential for devastating consequences. Apple needs to be told, loud and clear, that this is unacceptable.' On Apple’s iTunes store customers were similarly appalled.

 

Keith Hopster wrote: 'As a straight man i find this app offensive and totally inappropriate, we have young gay people around the world killing themselves as a direct result of religious beliefs and Apple allows this.

 

 

Been here before: Last year Apple pulled a pro-Christian app which criticised gay people called the 'Manhattan Declaration' after a 7,000-strong petition against it.

 

'I am disgusted with Apple and will think twice before I purchase any more Apple products until this is removed from the site.' Adam.iphone added: 'How can apple have let this app pass? This app is promoting religion based bullying and homophobia. As a straight Christian I am appalled!'

 

Last year Apple pulled a pro-Christian app which criticised gay people called the 'Manhattan Declaration' after Change.org handed over a 7,000-strong petition against it.

 

 

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Exodus, which claims to be the world's largest ministry for individuals and families 'impacted by homosexuality', has defended the app.

 

The organisation claims it is a useful resource for men, women, parents, students, and ministry leaders and should be allowed to remain on iTunes.

 

Its leaders have also said they are 'committed to encouraging, educating and equipping the Body of Christ to address the issue of homosexuality with grace and truth'.

 

Hand picked: Apple boss Steve Jobs only allows iPhone and iPad apps approved by the company be distributed on the iTunes service

 

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1368152/Apple-gay-rights-groups-approving-iPhone-app-cure-homosexuality.html#ixzz1HFdQNwk2

Fucking morons.

I hope the makers are as mainstream Christian as they come. That'd be embarrassing and would certainly be possible given the teachings.