The Citizens Commission on Human Rights of Florida will host its 9th Annual Humanitarian Awards Banquet on November 8th, 2025, at the historic Fort Harrison in downtown Clearwater. The event celebrates volunteers and community partners who advance human rights and improve mental health practices throughout the state. Attorney Paul Figueroa will receive the 2025 CCHR Florida Humanitarian Award, while Father Bob Swick will be honored with the 2025 CCHR Florida Lifetime Achievement Award. The banquet recognizes individuals and organizations committed to safeguarding basic freedoms and restoring dignity in mental health care.
"Our mission is to restore and secure basic freedoms and rights—especially for our next generation, our leaders of tomorrow," stated Diane Stein, President of CCHR Florida. "This event highlights the incredible work being done to ensure protection for all Floridians under the law, particularly in the effort to reform mental health legislation and prevent abuse." CCHR Florida remains actively engaged in public service by educating the general public about their legal rights, exposing abuses, and working with lawmakers to enact meaningful reforms. The organization is recognized for its advocacy surrounding Florida's Baker Act, working to reduce involuntary psychiatric examinations and advocating for more humane and transparent processes.
The organization was initially established by the Church of Scientology and renowned psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Szasz in 1969. CCHR's mission is to eradicate abuses committed under the guise of mental health and enact patient and consumer protections. L. Ron Hubbard, founder of Scientology, first brought psychiatric imprisonment to wide public notice in March 1969, writing about thousands being "seized without process of law" in the name of mental health. The Humanitarian Awards Banquet serves as both a celebration of achievements and a platform to promote continued positive change in mental health practices. Attendees will enjoy a banquet dinner and live musical performance during the evening event, which runs from 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm.
