The Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) of Florida has received significant recognition for their advocacy work in protecting mental health human rights. The organization won Gold for their 'Mental Health Human Rights: Protection of Children' campaign and Silver for their 'Protecting Mental Health Human Rights: Coercive Psychiatry' campaign in the 2024 Bulldog PR Awards. These awards highlight the exceptional efforts of the CCHR Florida chapter in addressing critical issues within the mental health sector.
The Bulldog PR Awards, administered by Bulldog Reporter, are unique in that they are exclusively judged by journalists, providing an objective perspective on outstanding PR work in the industry. According to the Bulldog PR Awards, this recognition underscores the importance and effectiveness of the CCHR's campaigns.
CCHR Florida has a long-standing mission to restore basic inalienable human rights within the mental health field. The chapter, consisting of a vast volunteer network, has been particularly active in exposing the misuse of involuntary psychiatric examinations in Florida, known as the Baker Act. This act has led to hundreds of thousands of involuntary psychiatric examinations annually, highlighting a significant area of concern for human rights within the state.
Under the leadership of Diane Stein, President of CCHR Florida, the organization developed a comprehensive PR and communications strategy aimed at exposing these abuses. By leveraging investigative news stories and social media, the campaign effectively communicated the urgent need for change. This strategic approach contributed to legislative reforms that have resulted in a reduction in the number of Baker Acts over three consecutive years. Additionally, these efforts have reinforced a parent's right to direct the mental health of their children, marking a significant victory for parental rights and mental health advocacy.
The impact of CCHR Florida's campaigns has been profound, reaching tens of millions of people and driving positive change in mental health policies. Their success in the Bulldog PR Awards not only validates their efforts but also brings greater visibility to the critical issue of mental health human rights. This recognition serves as an important reminder of the ongoing need to address and rectify abuses within the mental health system, ensuring that human rights are upheld and protected.
