CCHR Florida Marks 36 Years of Advocacy in Mental Health Human Rights
TL;DR
CCHR Florida's 36-year legacy offers a blueprint for advocating mental health rights, showcasing how strategic activism can lead to legislative reforms and protect vulnerable populations.
CCHR Florida evolved from a volunteer group in 1977 to a nonprofit, influencing over 50 mental health laws and reducing involuntary psychiatric examinations of children.
CCHR Florida's work ensures a safer future for children and families by combating psychiatric abuses and promoting mental health human rights across the state.
Discover how CCHR Florida's award-winning efforts have freed over 1,800 individuals from unjust Baker Acts since 2015, marking a significant milestone in mental health advocacy.
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The Florida chapter of the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) is commemorating its 36th anniversary as a pivotal mental health watchdog, with a celebration set for July 12th at the historic Fort Harrison in Clearwater. Originating from a volunteer initiative in 1977, CCHR Florida has evolved into an award-winning nonprofit, championing the rights of children and families against mental health abuses.
Since its formal establishment in 1989, CCHR Florida has grown into a statewide movement, significantly impacting mental health human rights awareness and legislation. The organization has been instrumental in educating Floridians about their rights under mental health law and has actively worked to safeguard citizens from psychiatric abuses, contributing to the passage of over 50 laws aimed at mental health reform.
A notable achievement of CCHR Florida includes its campaign against the illegal Baker Acting of children, which led to a 2021 amendment in Florida law requiring parental notification before such actions. This reform addresses a critical issue, as over 36,000 involuntary psychiatric examinations were initiated on children in 2019-2020 alone.
Recognized with eleven awards, including the prestigious Platinum Award, CCHR Florida boasts a membership of thousands across the state. Since 2015, the organization has facilitated the safe release of more than 1,800 individuals from unjust Baker Acts, underscoring its commitment to mental health human rights and reform.
For further details on CCHR Florida's initiatives or to learn more about the upcoming anniversary celebration, individuals are encouraged to visit the organization's center in Clearwater or contact them directly.
Curated from 24-7 Press Release
