The University of Central Florida (UCF) Student Union hosted the traveling exhibit "Psychiatry: An Industry of Death" last month, drawing students, veterans, law enforcement, and the public to explore the history of psychiatry and its alleged human rights abuses. The exhibit, based on a permanent museum at the headquarters of the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) in Los Angeles, aims to raise awareness about electroshock therapy, involuntary examinations, and the prescription of psychiatric drugs to children.
Hosted by CCHR's Florida chapter, the exhibit prompted strong reactions from attendees. A UCF psychology major, who initially planned to become a psychiatrist, expressed shock after touring the display, stating, "I want to help people – I don't want to do this! This changes everything." The Honorable Antonio "Tony" Ortiz, Orlando City Commissioner, also toured the exhibit and emphasized its importance, noting the influence of pharmaceutical companies on legislation and the need for reform regarding Florida's Baker Act. He praised CCHR's booklet on parental rights as a valuable community resource.
The Florida chapter of CCHR maintains a permanent installation of the exhibit in downtown Clearwater, unveiled in July 2015. This 14-display museum features interviews with over 160 doctors, attorneys, educators, and survivors, presenting what CCHR describes as the unvarnished history and current state of psychiatry. More than 10,000 people, including nursing and technical college students, have visited the museum as part of their clinical training.
CCHR also conducts seminars and workshops on the Baker Act to educate lawmakers, healthcare professionals, and citizens about mental health law and patients' rights. The museum is open Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., with free admission. For more information, visit CCHR Florida.
The exhibit underscores ongoing debates about psychiatric practices and patient protections, particularly concerning involuntary commitment and medication of minors. CCHR, co-founded in 1969 by the Church of Scientology and psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Szasz, continues to advocate against abuses under the guise of mental health care.
