The Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) Traveling Exhibit held its Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on June 23 at the Mini Social event space in Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona. The event featured local businessman Jimmy Alauria as Master of Ceremonies, who introduced CCHR's mission to protect human rights in mental health. Special guest speaker Judy Renfro, a member of JustServe, shared stories of individuals affected by addiction and emphasized the responsibility of medical professionals when prescribing medications that can alter behavior or create dependency.
Renfro stated, "As a society, we place tremendous trust in medical professionals. That trust also carries a profound responsibility. When prescribing medications that can alter behavior, create dependency, impair judgment, or affect cognitive function, careful consideration must be given not only to the intended benefits but also to the long-term consequences for the individual, their family, and the broader community." Following the ribbon cutting, attendees toured graphic panels and watched documentaries exposing the history of false science and abuses in the psychiatric industry. Many guests expressed surprise at the origins of psychiatry and the extent of past abuses, finding the exhibit's revelations convincing.
The exhibit was open to the public during its stay in Phoenix and drew significant interest. It has since moved to its next destination as part of a tour of major U.S. cities. The exhibit issues a warning that psychiatric treatments can kill, and there are 14 identical traveling exhibits worldwide. For more information, visit the CCHR website, or watch documentaries on the work of CCHR volunteers and the film Psychiatry: An Industry of Death on the Scientology Network.
The Citizens Commission on Human Rights was co-founded in 1969 by psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Szasz and the Church of Scientology. CCHR Commissioners include physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, lawyers, legislators, government officials, educators, and civil rights representatives. The organization is inspired by L. Ron Hubbard's commitment to abolishing damaging practices in mental health.
