Tag Archives: Religion and Churches

Scientology Tools for Life Empower 31,000 South Africans to Help

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa /ScoopCloud/ -- With more than 31,000 South Africans trained on the 19 Scientology Tools for Life courses, the Scientology Volunteer Ministers are well on the way to achieving their purpose: to empower the people of South Africa.

"True empowerment begins when individuals have the power to change their own lives and the lives of others," says Sandile Hlayisi, chairperson of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers of South Africa. "We have witnessed the power of this simple yet profound training."

The Scientology Tools for Life were developed by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard in the mid-1970s for the training of Scientology Volunteer Ministers. Graduates use these skills to serve their communities, improve educational standards, respond to emergencies and disasters, launch successful businesses and create new opportunities for themselves and others. "The essence of the Scientology Tools for Life," says Hlayisi, "is that they equip people with the skills they need to thrive."

The Scientology Volunteer Ministers began providing Scientology Tools for Life workshops in 2019 at Castle Kyalami in Johannesburg, South Africa, Scientology continental headquarters for Africa. These courses provide practical skills that ignite meaningful change, as these graduate testimonials illustrate:

* Boitumelo Maswanganye of Soshanguve began an after-school initiative for children struggling to read. "It not only rehabilitates learners who have given up but encourages them to pursue further studies," she says. "Children who once couldn't read are now achieving over 90 percent in school tests. It's magical."

* "This Tools for Life skills program is not just theoretical training," said the station manager of Emergency Medical Services of Westonaria, a town in the Rand West City municipality. He sees this training as vital to prevent burnout and restore the well-being of his staff. EMS workers are often traumatized in their efforts to save lives. "We also need help," he said. And they have received that help from the Scientology Tools for Life.

* For many, like Irene Moemise, the program provided a lifeline in a time of need. After losing her job during the COVID-19 pandemic, Moemise struggled despite her master's degree. "The Tools for Life program gave me a sense of direction and purpose," she says. With newfound confidence, she opened Le'Bakery in Meadowlands, a thriving bakery that has quickly become a community favorite. "I went from being unemployed to an employer, turning my passion into a business that feeds my community and my soul."

Each week, new graduates turn dreams into reality and uplift their families and communities.

"We welcome everyone, regardless of their background," says Hlayisi. "This training is for all-it transcends religion, profession, race and circumstance. Everyone deserves the chance to succeed."

Mr. Hubbard described the Volunteer Minister as "a person who helps his fellow man on a volunteer basis by restoring purpose, truth and spiritual values to the lives of others." Their creed: "A Volunteer Minister does not shut his eyes to the pain, evil and injustice of existence. Rather, he is trained to handle these things and help others achieve relief from them and new personal strength as well."

Their motto is, no matter the circumstances, "Something can be done about it."

Castle Kyalami serves as a home for the community and a nexus for all who share the goal of bettering the lives of individuals and strengthening communities across the region, nation and all of Africa. Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige dedicated Kyalami Castle on New Year's Day 2019, reaffirming Mr. Hubbard's belief that "from Southern Africa will spring the next great civilization on this planet."

For the full impact of the South African Volunteer Ministers' pandemic response, watch the award-winning documentary Operation: Do Something About It. Produced by Scientology Media Productions, the film is available on the Scientology Network on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.youtube.com/@vmafrica

https://www.castlekyalami.org.za/about-us/working-together-to-build-a-better-and-safer-world.html

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/operation-do-something-about-it.html

With more than 31,000 South Africans trained on the 19 Scientology Tools for Life courses, the Scientology Volunteer Ministers are well on the way to achieving their purpose: to empower the people of South Africa.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

The Truth About Overdose: The Need To Save Lives

NASHVILLE, Tenn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Police, nonprofits and community leaders gathered at the Church of Scientology community hall in Nashville, Tennessee, to mark Drug Overdose Awareness Day with a united effort to raise awareness and combat the overdose epidemic.

Drug overdose death rates increased in Tennessee from 17.2 per 100,000 in 2011 to 56.6 per 100,000 in 2021. According to the Centers for Disease Control's National Center for Health Statistics, Tennessee has the country's third-highest overdose mortality rate, under West Virginia and the District of Columbia.

The event underscored the importance of collective action, with speakers stressing that drug abuse is not an isolated issue but one that affects the entire community. By increasing awareness and encouraging cooperation between community groups, Drug-Free Tennessee aims to create a safer and healthier Nashville for future generations.

Organized by Drug-Free Tennessee, the local chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World, the event featured education and prevention strategies and emphasized the importance of reaching young people with factual, engaging drug prevention materials.

"Our community must work together to end the devastating impact of drug abuse," said Rev. Brian Fesler, Director of Public Affairs of the Church of Scientology of Nashville and coordinator of Drug-Free Tennessee. "Education is the foundation of prevention and that's why we make resources like The Truth About Drugs available for everyone to use." He emphasized the importance of reaching young people with factual, engaging drug prevention materials. "Our community must work together to end the devastating impact of drug abuse."

Attendees engaged in discussions about strategies to reduce drug-related harm and left with copies of The Truth About Drugs educational materials to share within their organizations and communities.

This year's UN Office on Drugs and Crime motto stresses the importance of drug education-"The evidence is clear: invest in prevention." UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that "breaking the cycle of suffering means starting at the beginning, before drugs take hold, by investing in prevention."

Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit with consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Thanks to the support of Churches of Scientology and Scientologists, the Foundation makes its acclaimed secular drug education and prevention materials and programs available free of charge to anyone wishing to use them to educate others on this vital subject.

For decades, Scientologists have engaged in drug education and prevention in their communities, inspired by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology-ccnashville.org

https://drugfreetn.org/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-truth-about-drugs.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/they-said-they-lied.html

olice, nonprofits and community leaders gathered at the Church of Scientology community hall in Nashville, Tennessee, to mark Drug Overdose Awareness Day with a united effort to raise awareness and combat the overdose epidemic.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Network Takes Viewers Inside Bridge Publications, the Ultimate 21st-Century Publishing Facility

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Network's INSIDE SCIENTOLOGY, the exclusive series that provides unprecedented access to the facilities and behind-the-scenes operations of the Church of Scientology, presents Bridge Publications Monday, Sept. 16, at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

ABOUT BRIDGE PUBLICATIONS

Seventy-five million words. If you combined all the works of Plato, Shakespeare, Dickens, Tolstoy, Thomas Paine and Jefferson-and every volume of Encyclopaedia Britannica-it still wouldn't add up to the number of words contained in the complete materials of Dianetics and Scientology, all authored over the course of a quarter-century by one man, L. Ron Hubbard. These are the materials of the Scientology religion-the single largest body of knowledge on the mind, spirit and life. And Bridge Publications was established for one purpose: to make these materials available to anyone, anywhere in their native language.

This episode goes inside the award-winning publishing facility, designed from the ground up to facilitate and fulfill the ever-increasing demand for Scientology books and materials, including over 3,000 recorded lectures by Mr. Hubbard. It outlines how Bridge established an on-demand process to immediately fill book and CD orders of any size and in any of 17 languages.

As one of the world's first all-digital printing facilities, Bridge pushes the limits of technology to create innovative publishing solutions. Viewers get the ultimate tour of a 21st-century facility that has revolutionized digital printing.

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network can be streamed at Scientology.tv and is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse, mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.Scientology.tv

https://www.bridgepub.com/about/

VIDEO:

https://www.Scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/bridge-publications.html

Scientology Network's INSIDE SCIENTOLOGY, the exclusive series that provides unprecedented access to the facilities and behind-the-scenes operations of the Church of Scientology, presents Bridge Publications Monday, Sept. 16, at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Pillars of the L.A. Latin Community Honored at World Humanitarian Day Celebration on L. Ron Hubbard Way

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Church of Scientology Los Angeles hosted a World Humanitarian Day celebration and awards ceremony to honor men and women whose work empowers the county's Latinx community.

Some 200 languages are spoken in Los Angeles County, and more than a third of county residents were born outside the United States. But while Hispanic or Latinx families and individuals comprise nearly 47 percent of the population, making this the largest ethnic group in the county, the community suffers disproportionate economic and social challenges, including lower income, higher unemployment, less education, and fewer advancement opportunities.

The men and women honored at the World Humanitarian Day ceremony are working to level the playing field and have dedicated their lives to helping the Latin community.

* Walter Batres migrated to America from Guatemala at 18 in the midst of his country's repressive civil war. He formed the Guatemalan Migrant Network (RMG) to provide support and guidance for the repatriation to Guatemala of migrants who have died in the U.S. or en route to the country, and expanded the nonprofit's services to promote education, cultural pride, sports and humanitarian activities. His organization provides food, water and medical supplies to Guatemalans seeking refuge in the U.S. RMG members are compassionate individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, including business owners, artisans and professionals in many fields and trades, working together to improve the lot of the migrant community.

* Minister Emmanuel Balderas and his team of volunteers have provided food for thousands of orphans and low-income families in Veracruz, Mexico. They raise funds for scholarships and school materials for children in rural areas, donate wheelchairs to the elderly and have provided more than 400,000 toys to Veracruz children. He is known for his compassion and his spiritual and emotional counseling to uplift members of the L.A. migrant community.

* Martin Cruz, president of the Chicano Latino Immigrant Democratic Club of Southern California, uplifts Latin American communities by spearheading the formation of cultural groups and events to unite, empower, and foster pride in the heritage of Latin Americans in Southern California.

* Justina and Jose Islas, president and vice president of the nonprofit Unidos Por Una Misma Causa (United for the Same Cause), provide counseling and help for those suffering from domestic violence and drug abuse, and they educate the community on drug prevention and human rights.

* Montebello Rotary Club President for 2023-2024 Edward Franco and his team were recognized for their initiatives to educate underserved children.

* Mr. Alberto Godinez, TV and radio personality, was awarded for his work to save victims of human trafficking. Godinez is also a major player in providing comprehensive information on drug prevention to rehabilitation centers.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is an Ideal Scientology Organization, configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community-a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations. It was dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in 2010.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is featured in an episode of Inside Scientology on the Scientology Network, available on DIRECTV channel 320 and streaming at Scientology.tv, through mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org/

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo?si=iA7P9xKy1EkMOawa

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles hosted a World Humanitarian Day celebration and awards ceremony to honor men and women whose work empowers the county's Latinx community. Some 200 languages are spoken in Los Angeles County, and more than a third of county residents were born outside the United States.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Friendship Day at the Church of Scientology Seattle Promotes Sustainability

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- Volunteers with the Seattle chapter of The Way to Happiness Foundation and the Church of Scientology celebrated this year's International Day of Friendship with a community open house. They showcased Seattle programs and resources that bring neighbors together to enhance the beauty and sustainability of the community.

Featured guest speaker Laura Jenkins, Community Outreach Coordinator with the City of Seattle Department of Neighborhoods, sparked enthusiasm among those attending with her dynamic presentation about the city's many environmental programs and volunteer opportunities.

Jenny Frankl, Program Manager for the Adopt-a-Street program, acknowledged the Church of Scientology and its volunteers for 32 years of dedicated service with the program.

In addition to beautification projects and street and park cleanups, these volunteers promote common-sense values that encourage sustainability by distributing The Way to Happiness. The book helps individuals strengthen their moral compass and make better choices in life.

The first moral code based wholly on common sense, The Way to Happiness, written by author, humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, was originally published in 1981. Its purpose is to help arrest society's moral decline and restore integrity and trust.

"The Church of Scientology and its volunteers are proud to share the tools for happier living contained in The Way to Happiness," said Rev. Ann Pearce, director of public affairs for the local church.

She encouraged those attending the open house to avail themselves of the booklet and a free online course in its precepts, available through the Way to Happiness Foundation website.

The Scientology Network features brief films on humanitarians of diverse cultures and creeds who use The Way to Happiness to lower crime rates, bring calm and help individuals overcome barriers to their own happiness and the happiness of others. The award-winning series Voices for Humanity is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

The Church of Scientology Seattle is an Ideal Scientology Church, dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in July 2010. The Church is configured to serve its parishioners in their ascent to spiritual freedom and to serve as a resource for the entire community.

For more information, visit the website of the Church of Scientology Seattle.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology-seattle.org/

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/qTSzwI-qmsc?si=SJCIR-0c6OGfBFW2

Volunteers with the Seattle chapter of The Way to Happiness Foundation and the Church of Scientology celebrated this year's International Day of Friendship with a community open house. They showcased Seattle programs and resources that bring neighbors together to enhance the beauty and sustainability of the community.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Network’s Documentary Showcase Airs ‘Man in Red Bandana,’ the Tale of a 9/11 Hero

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- "Man in Red Bandana" retraces the final hours of a mysterious American hero who gave his life in the South Tower on 9/11 to save others. Firsthand accounts from those he rescued speak of a man wearing a red bandana, the only clue that would lead to the reveal of his true identity: Welles Remy Crowther.

Written and directed by Matthew J. Weiss and narrated by Gwyneth Paltrow, Man in Red Bandana documents the selfless courage and inspiring legacy of Welles Remy Crowther, a 24-year-old equities trader who worked on the 104th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center. Described by those he saved as a kind of guardian angel, Welles guided injured, disoriented and panic-stricken victims to safety via an escape route he had located. But instead of taking the opportunity to save himself, he climbed back up the stairway to rescue still more. Once his identity was discovered, his legend grew to include numerous honors, as well as recognition by President Obama at the dedication ceremony for the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

Man in Red Bandana won the Humanitarian Award at the Rhode Island International Film Festival and the Audience Award at the Niagara Falls International Film Festival.

ABOUT MATTHEW J. WEISS

Man in Red Bandana is Matthew J. Weiss's first full-length documentary and directorial debut. Additional credits by the New York-based attorney turned award-winning filmmaker include producing the feature film Vault and the documentary My Father Muhammad Ali.

In an interview with Scientology Media Productions for DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASE, Matthew said:

"I made this film to encourage others to be better and to personify Welles's values. And now with this platform, literally thousands and thousands more people are going to be able to be inspired and impacted by Welles and his story. So I'm very grateful for this opportunity and super excited that it has been accepted on such a prestigious platform."

ABOUT DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASE

Fundamental to Scientology is a humanitarian mission that extends to some 200 nations with programs for human rights, human decency, literacy, morality, drug prevention and disaster relief. For this reason, the Scientology Network provides a platform for independent filmmakers who embrace a vision of building a better world.

DOCUMENTARY SHOWCASE debuts films weekly from award-winning independent filmmakers whose goal is to improve society by raising awareness of social, cultural and environmental issues.

For more information, visit scientology.tv/docs.

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology and Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. Scientology Network's innovative content has been recognized with more than 125 industry awards, including Tellys, Communitas and Hermes Creative Awards.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/documentary-showcase/

https://www.scientology.tv/series/documentary-showcase/man-in-red-bandana/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/documentary-showcase/man-in-red-bandana/videos/trailer.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/documentary-showcase/man-in-red-bandana/videos/an-inside-look.html

PHOTO link for media:

https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-0911-s2p-redbandana-300dpi.jpg

PHOTO CAPTION:

Man in Red Bandana: The incredible story of Welles Remy Crowther, who gave his life during the 9/11 attacks to save others.

TAGS: #DocumentaryShowcase #ManInRedBandana #September11 #NewYork #ScientologyNetwork

"Man in Red Bandana" retraces the final hours of a mysterious American hero who gave his life in the South Tower on 9/11 to save others. Firsthand accounts from those he rescued speak of a man wearing a red bandana, the only clue that would lead to the reveal of his true identity: Welles Remy Crowther.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Volunteer Ministers Continental Cavalcade Reaches Out With Help at the Canadian National Exhibition

TORONTO, Canada /ScoopCloud/ -- The 75th anniversary of the Canadian Air Show at the Canadian National Exhibition was a perfect opportunity to showcase the humanitarian activities of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers. Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who developed the Volunteer Ministers program, was himself a pioneer at the dawn of American aviation, known as "Flash Hubbard" for his aerial achievements.

Distinguished Toastmaster and community activist Azhar Khan carried the metaphor forward by comparing the Volunteer Ministers program to the stunning aerial display: Just as these jets break the sound barrier, Volunteer Ministers break the barriers to a happy, successful life, he said.

Uche Okugo, founder and president of the Network of Nigerians in Canada and member of the Brampton Mayor's Black Advisory Council, spoke of his partnership with the Volunteer Ministers. He explained that by using the tools of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers, he has been able to greatly expand his help to orient immigrants and assist them to succeed, often under difficult circumstances, in their new country.

"Life can be very challenging," said Scientology Volunteer Ministers spokesperson Cyndie Clourie. "Many of us experience ups and downs as we navigate toward prosperity and happiness. But unlike the supersonic jet pilot, who is trained to perfection in his craft, we frequently find ourselves in the cockpit of life without a manual or map, trying to avoid the downdrafts and struggling to keep ourselves from heading into a nosedive. Scientology Volunteer Ministers provide tools for life that put you in control in the pilot's seat."

These life skills include the technology of study to help people learn skills so they can achieve their full potential. They help increase their ability to deal with turbulent circumstances. Using these tools, people can discover the underlying cause of quarrels and conflicts and resolve them.

Visitors also learned of the disaster relief work done internationally by Scientology Volunteer Ministers. Guests were invited to attend seminars at the pavilion or to log onto the Volunteer Ministers website to enroll on free online Scientology Tools for Life courses.

Whether it's helping a neighbor or friend with a personal or family difficulty or answering the call of a nation on the other side of the world after a tragic disaster, the motto of the Volunteer Minister is "Something Can Be Done About It."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.volunteerministers.org

https://www.scientology.org/how-we-help/volunteer-ministers/

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/Su1NKhyhIp8?si=hqBYbDJknmizuUuS

The 75th anniversary of the Canadian Air Show at the Canadian National Exhibition was a perfect opportunity to showcase the humanitarian activities of the Scientology Volunteer Ministers. Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who developed the Volunteer Ministers program, was himself a pioneer at the dawn of American aviation, known as "Flash Hubbard" for his aerial achievements.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Celebrating the Magic of Hidalgo on L. Ron Hubbard Way

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- L. Ron Hubbard Way was transformed into a cultural festival last week, bringing the rich heritage of Hildago to life in East Hollywood. The celebration showcased the vibrant crafts, traditional music, colorful costumes, dancing and authentic cuisine of the magical villages in the green mountains of Hidalgo, the state named for Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, known as the father of Mexican independence.

Siblings Justina and José Islas organized the festival. They brought cultural associations and nonprofits on board, including Unidos Por Una Misma Causa (United for the Same Cause), which advocates for human rights and drug prevention, Unidos Por Hidalgo (United for Hidalgo) and Sur California Hidalguenses (Southern California Hidalguans). They invited the Los Angeles Latino community to join them in this celebration of Hidalgo culture and traditions.

José spoke fondly of his birthplace, Acaxochitlán, named a "Magical Village" in 2023. Acaxochitlán means "a place where reeds grow" in Nahuatl, the Aztec language of the region's Indigenous people. These reeds are used to create the unique baskets, hats and flutes of his village, many of which were on display at the artisanal booths set up along L. Ron Hubbard Way. Traditional craftsmen also exhibited handmade jewelry. Local cooks served the traditional lamb "barbacoa" in pastries and hand-made tortillas.

When the folkloric ballet Corazones Valientes performed Mexican dances to traditional "huapango" music, those attending the festival joined them in a spontaneous celebration of the culture of home.

The Islas presented a plaque to the Church of Scientology Los Angeles in recognition of humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who believed, "A community that pulls together can make a better society for all." This philosophy inspires the Church of Scientology Los Angeles to bring the diverse Los Angeles cultures and communities together to achieve shared humanitarian goals.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is an Ideal Scientology Organization, configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community-a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations. It was dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in 2010. The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is featured in an episode of the original series Inside Scientology on the Scientology Network.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org/

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo?si=iA7P9xKy1EkMOawa

. Ron Hubbard Way was transformed into a cultural festival last week, bringing the rich heritage of Hildago to life in East Hollywood. The celebration showcased the vibrant crafts, traditional music, colorful costumes, dancing and authentic cuisine of the magical villages in the green mountains of Hidalgo, the state named for Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, known as the father of Mexican independence.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Join the Scientology Network for Inside Saint Hill: First Worldwide Headquarters of Scientology and the Home of L. Ron Hubbard in the 1960s

EAST GRINSTEAD, U.K. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Network's INSIDE SCIENTOLOGY, the exclusive series that provides unprecedented access to the facilities and behind-the-scenes operation of the Church of Scientology, brings viewers inside Saint Hill-the first worldwide headquarters of Scientology.

INSIDE SCIENTOLOGY airs Monday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Scientology Network.

Set amidst 100 acres of the ancient Ashdown Forest are the roots of a global religion. Welcome to Saint Hill. This legendary Manor House is located at the Prime Meridian, in the medieval town of East Grinstead, England. Over the course of its nearly 300-year history, its owners have included landed gentry, the wife of an American diplomat and an Indian maharajah.

Then, in the mid-20th century, Saint Hill became home to Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard. Here, he lived, worked and made pivotal breakthroughs in the spiritual technology of Scientology, guiding it from a grass-roots movement to a worldwide religion.

The Manor House, restored to its original magnificence, looks exactly as it did when Mr. Hubbard lived there. From a rare Erard grand piano he played to a darkroom where he developed his photographs, the Manor House gives visitors a sense of the many facets of his life.

In this episode, viewers are given an intimate tour of the landmark site where the global movement was born.

While Saint Hill Manor preserves the Church's origins, across the property, a modern-day Castle serves as a 21st-century church. Inspired by an 11th-century Norman fortress, the Saint Hill Castle was conceived and designed by Mr. Hubbard himself to accommodate the ever-growing numbers of people who were coming to Saint Hill to study Scientology.

Today, thousands journey from all corners of the globe to the pastoral English countryside to celebrate the anniversary of the International Association of Scientologists and support the humanitarian works it sponsors. Cameras capture the jubilant event that is infused with the spirit of Mr. Hubbard. Gain insight into the life of the Founder of Scientology, explore the roots of a modern movement and visit a magical setting with Inside Scientology: Saint Hill.

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by Independent filmmakers who represent a cross section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities. Scientology Network's innovative content has been recognized with more than 125 industry awards, including Tellys, Communitas and Hermes Creative Awards.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/saint-hill.html

Scientology Network's INSIDE SCIENTOLOGY, the exclusive series that provides unprecedented access to the facilities and behind-the-scenes operation of the Church of Scientology, brings viewers inside Saint Hill-the first worldwide headquarters of Scientology.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Young Performers Shine on L. Ron Hubbard Way

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Young members of Inner-City Shakespeare Ensemble took a break from the Bard to perform a whimsical children's play. The production, organized by the Church of Scientology Los Angeles, was part of the family-friendly summer festival held on L. Ron Hubbard Way.

This play featured children as young as 5 in vignettes based on famous children's fables and fairy tales that promote traditional morals. Characters included the Three Little Pigs with their lesson that it takes hard work and foresight to prepare for future challenges. And the Frog Prince brought home the importance of keeping promises and not judging others by their appearance.

For more than a decade, Dr. Melanie Curtis-Andrews and the Inner-City Shakespeare Ensemble have introduced inner-city youth from diverse cultural and social backgrounds to the theater through the timeless plays of William Shakespeare. But the ensemble also rocked the house this May with their performance of Grease and presents blow-away Christmas shows at the Church of Scientology yearly lighting ceremonies that launch their holiday festival and annual toy drive.

Dr. Curtis-Andrews credits L. Ron Hubbard's Study Technology for enhancing the confidence and skill of her ensemble. "People are often amazed to find that our young company can effectively perform the works of the Bard with such grace and understanding. Clearly, it is a challenge to do so with the varying educational and intellectual ability of our diverse casts. The key to our success is the use of L. Ron Hubbard's Study Tech."

L. Ron Hubbard recognized the failings of the educational system and developed an actual technology anyone can learn and use to master any subject. These educational breakthroughs are known as Study Technology. They provide students at every age and educational level with the missing ingredient of much of modern education-the ability to learn how to learn.

Following the performance, Dr. Curtis-Andrews presented the Church with a recognition of L. Ron Hubbard for his contribution to the community and his "technology that has helped millions enhance their abilities and find understanding in life and study."

"The end goal of any society as it addresses the problem of education is to raise the ability, the initiative and the cultural level, and with all these the survival level of that society," Mr. Hubbard wrote. And that is exactly what Dr. Curtis-Andrews and the Inner-City Shakespeare Ensemble do: increase the cultural and educational level of youth and help ensure a brighter future for the children in the community.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is an Ideal Scientology Organization, configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community-a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations. It was dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in 2010.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org/

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo?si=iA7P9xKy1EkMOawa

Young members of Inner-City Shakespeare Ensemble took a break from the Bard to perform a whimsical children's play. The production, organized by the Church of Scientology Los Angeles, was part of the family-friendly summer festival held on L. Ron Hubbard Way.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Scientology Church in Seattle Hosts Annual Block Party Celebrating National Night Out

SEATTLE, Wash. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Church of Scientology hosted its annual block party to celebrate National Night Out. The party featured a live band, a professional balloon artist, and a face painter for the kids. Guests age 2 to 94 were treated to hamburgers and hot dogs cooked on a mobile barbecue grill in a converted classic 1924 Model-T Ford-an annual block party tradition.

Seattle Police Department Crime Prevention supports National Night Out "to heighten crime prevention awareness, increase neighborhood support in anti-crime efforts, and unite our communities." The annual event is designed to engage neighborhoods in local crime- and drug-abuse prevention activities.

"It's important to us to work with our police department to support anti-crime and drug prevention efforts," said Rev. Ann Pearce, Director of Public Affairs for the Seattle Church. "We are members of the city's block watch program for our area. This annual block party is also a great opportunity to renew friendships and meet new neighbors."

The Church-sponsored National Night Out was one of dozens held throughout the greater Seattle area and more than 130 throughout the state.

Despite the lighthearted tone of the community get-together, drug abuse is a critical problem in Seattle. Volunteers of the local chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World, the Church-supported drug education and prevention initiative, set up a booth making their Truth About Drugs educational materials available free of charge to all attending.

Drug prevention is vital in light of the recent spike in overdose deaths in Seattle. Downtown Seattle Association reports: "Overdose death counts continue to rise at a startling rate in Washington state. Between September 2022 and September 2023, Washington reported a 41 percent rise in drug overdose fatalities-the steepest increase in the United States. As the most populous county in the state, King County saw the highest number of overdose deaths, a majority of them concentrated in Seattle and downtown. In 2023, overdose deaths downtown represented more than 11 percent of overdose deaths within King County."

Volunteers with the Church make these materials available broadly with seminars, conferences, at fairs, festivals and other venues across Washington state.

"Prevention and education are critical to stopping the current drug crisis," said Dave Scattergood, Seattle-based ambassador to the Foundation for a Drug-Free World who is featured in an episode of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network. "Not only do drugs make it easier for people to commit crimes because their judgment is altered, but they have that need to make the money to get the drugs. So, the two really go hand in hand. I want to see a world where people can live in prosperity and freedom. And you can't do that when you're addicted to drugs."

According to United Nations Office on Drug Abuse and Crime,"For every dollar spent on prevention, at least ten can be saved in future health, social and crime costs."

Noting the role substance abuse plays in the disintegration of the social fabric, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

The Church of Scientology Seattle is committed to working with the community to resolve this issue. The Church was dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in July 2010. An Ideal Scientology Organization, it is configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community-a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology-seattle.org/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/dave-scattergood.html

The Church of Scientology hosted its annual block party to celebrate National Night Out. The party featured a live band, a professional balloon artist, and a face painter for the kids. Guests age 2 to 94 were treated to hamburgers and hot dogs cooked on a mobile barbecue grill in a converted classic 1924 Model-T Ford-an annual block party tradition.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Church of Scientology Dublin Honors Nelson Mandela and His Human Rights Legacy

DUBLIN, Ireland /ScoopCloud/ -- The Church of Scientology Dublin marked Nelson Mandela Day with a human rights open house and celebration of the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela and his special connection to Ireland. Honored guests included Dr. David Nyaluke, Vice Chairperson of the African Scholars Association of Ireland and Dr. Ebun A. Joseph, Founder of the Institution of Antiracism and Black Studies.

Dr. Nyaluke shared how in 1988, when Mandela was still a political prisoner of South Africa's apartheid regime, the city awarded him the Freedom of the City of Dublin-the city's most prestigious award. Two years later, shortly after his release from prison, Mandela came to Ireland to accept the award.

In his speech to Dáil Éireann, Mandela acknowledged the special bond between Ireland and the people of South Africa: "We know that your desire that the disenfranchised of our country should be heard in this house and throughout Ireland derives from your determination, born of your experience that our people should, like yourselves, be free to govern themselves and to determine their destiny."

Dr. Joseph shared her passion for human rights and the importance of raising awareness of the subject through education.

Church of Scientology Dublin Director of Public Affairs, Diana Stahl, introduced those attending to United for Human Rights, the human rights initiative inspired by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard and supported by Scientology Churches and Scientologists for more than two decades. The program's acclaimed educational materials raise awareness of the 30 Articles of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Church of Scientology & Community Centre in Firhouse, Dublin, was dedicated in 2017 by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige. The Centre serves as a hub for local activities and events, in keeping with Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard's intention that all Scientology Churches should serve as a home for the entire community and a meeting ground for cooperative efforts. The Church & Community Centre hosts weekly events while working together with all denominations and numerous community groups on initiatives, including drug prevention, human rights education, environmental, cultural, charitable, and art projects. In 1956, L. Ron Hubbard lived in Dublin with offices in Merrion Square, where he launched humanitarian initiatives, which continue to flourish throughout the world today.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology-dublin.ie/

https://www.humanrights.com

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/destination-scientology/dublin.html

The Church of Scientology Dublin marked Nelson Mandela Day with a human rights open house and celebration of the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela and his special connection to Ireland. Honored guests included Dr. David Nyaluke, Vice Chairperson of the African Scholars Association of Ireland and Dr. Ebun A. Joseph, Founder of the Institution of Antiracism and Black Studies.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

New Mobile Exhibit in Copenhagen Exposes the Truth About Drugs

COPENHAGEN, Denmark /ScoopCloud/ -- The Danish chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World set up their new mobile drug education and prevention exhibit on Nytorv Square in the heart of Copenhagen. Volunteers from the Church of Scientology Denmark, which sponsors the program, welcomed a nonstop flow of visitors throughout the afternoon. As exhibit guests shared their experiences with the volunteers, their sobering stories confirmed the importance of the Truth About Drugs campaign.

The mother of a 6th-grade boy confided that her son has been smoking marijuana. Dealers wait outside his school to sell drugs to the children. Another visitor has been addicted to cannabis since he was 12, which led to his abusing other drugs.

A Swedish teacher confirmed that the problem goes beyond Denmark. He wants to reach children at his school with an effective anti-drug message. The volunteers helped him order the free Drug-Free World educator kit in Swedish from the Drug-Free World website.

The new mobile exhibit not only showcases the Truth About Drugs campaign's drug education and prevention materials, it also features brief documentaries from the Scientology Network showing humanitarians of diverse cultures and backgrounds who use these materials to counter drug abuse in communities in countries the world over.

The Church of Scientology Denmark and its volunteers have been active in drug prevention since 1991. Their bright teal T-shirts are a common sight as they hand out their drug education booklets in Copenhagen's busiest venues and at sports events such as the annual Royal Run and the Copenhagen Marathon.

Noting the role substance abuse plays in the disintegration of the social fabric, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

Foundation for a Drug-Free World was formed in 2006 to serve as a primary distributor of educational materials and to develop new materials to meet the challenge of continually changing drug trends. It is a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. The Foundation has grown to a network of some 200 chapters around the world. Thanks to the support of the Church of Scientology and Scientologists, the Foundation provides its acclaimed Truth About Drugs secular program and materials free of charge to anyone wishing to take action to address this urgent issue.

Take the Foundation's free online drug education course at drugfreeworld.org/course/.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology-denmark.org/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/destination-scientology/copenhagen.html

The Danish chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World set up their new mobile drug education and prevention exhibit on Nytorv Square in the heart of Copenhagen. Volunteers from the Church of Scientology Denmark, which sponsors the program, welcomed a nonstop flow of visitors throughout the afternoon. As exhibit guests shared their experiences with the volunteers, their sobering stories confirmed the importance of the Truth About Drugs campaign.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

A Joyful Celebration as Narconon Mexico Marked 26 Years of Service and a Return to Its Roots in the State of Querétaro

QUERETARO, Mexico /ScoopCloud/ -- Narconon Mexico, the first Narconon ever established in the country, proudly celebrated its 26th anniversary with a special ceremony marking completion of expansive and newly renovated facilities in the heart of Pedro Escobedo Municipality where it all began.

Officials, dignitaries, supporters and alumni whose lives have been touched by the program joined Narconon executives and staff for the joyous occasion.

Guest speakers included:

* Dr. Beatriz Mendez Garcia, President of Rotary Club, Mexico City,
* Mr. Alfonso Ruiz, Narconon Mexico's first graduate, who went on to become a professional triathlete and successful entrepreneur,
* Mr. Francisco Boneta, Commissioner Against Addiction for the state of Quintana Roo,
* Dr. Diana Callejas, Director of the International Brotherhood of Social Leaders of Mexico,
* Mr. Francisco Villa, Vice Chancellor of the International Brotherhood of Social Leaders of Mexico and Human Rights Coordinator of the National Civil Association, and
* Ms. Zu Morales, Executive Director of the Narconon Latin American Continental Training Center.

The event began with a performance of traditional music by the Los Tarantos musical group.

Executive Director Eduardo Espinal reaffirmed Narconon Mexico's commitment to serve. In Mexico, family is everything and drug addiction destroys families. When you help a father, a mother, a son, or a daughter overcome addiction, it not only rehabilitates them, it salvages the family, because when a person is addicted, the whole family suffers.

Mr. Boneta presented the Narconon executives and staff with a plaque from the Quintana Roo State Commission of Mental Health and Addiction.

The plaque states: "The Narconon program developed by humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard has provided rehabilitation and prevention services to thousands of individuals in Mexico, Colombia and more than a dozen countries around the world... For more than 25 years, Narconon Mexico has been a beacon of hope for those suffering from addiction. We thank you and salute you for the lifesaving Narconon program that is reuniting families and helping communities across Mexico."

Mr. Ruiz shared the results he achieved from completing the Narconon program: "Narconon gave me back my life, helped me take control, and provided me with the tools to manage my own condition. It made me a valuable person who could rejoin society. Thanks to Narconon, I discovered my true self, I have won many awards and achieved great success."

For more than 50 years, the Narconon program has saved the lives of countless individuals who were thought lost to substance abuse forever. Its mission is to provide an effective path for drug abuse rehabilitation and to assist society in reversing the scourge of drug abuse worldwide.

About Narconon:

Narconon is unique among drug rehabilitation programs in that it offers a drug-free, nonmedical withdrawal to end the hold of addiction. Narconon's detoxification method is based on L. Ron Hubbard's discovery that drug residues remain in the fatty tissues of the body long after the use of drugs. This breakthrough process rids the body of those toxic substances. Also unique to the program is the fact it addresses the physical and mental pain that caused the person to turn to drugs in the first place, helping ensure they never go back to drugs again.

Today, thousands upon thousands of Narconon graduates lead drug-free lives.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.narconon.org/

https://www.narconon-mexico.org/

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/V6qgjbHDAD4?si=Ii0DsnBlG-7hk4QH

Narconon Mexico, the first Narconon ever established in the country, proudly celebrated its 26th anniversary with a special ceremony marking completion of expansive and newly renovated facilities in the heart of Pedro Escobedo Municipality where it all began.

Related link: https://www.narconon.org/

Drug-Free World at the Paris Olympics and a Million Reasons to Not Do Drugs

PARIS, France /ScoopCloud/ -- With the eyes of the world on Paris, and some 6 million gathered in the city and other host venues for the 2024 Olympics, Foundation for a Drug-Free World organized a massive distribution of drug education booklets. Hundreds of volunteers from Non à la Drogue, Oui à la Vie (No to Drugs, Yes to Life Association) were delighted to find broad-based support from individuals and groups eager to contribute to the cause.

"Drugs are at the root of immeasurable human suffering," said UN Secretary-General António Guterres in his message on the International Day Against Drug Abuse this year. "Evidence-based drug prevention programmes can protect people and communities alike, while taking a bite out of illicit economies that profit from human misery."

"This is what has driven the Foundation's work since its inception," says Foundation for a Drug-Free World Executive Director Jessica Hochman, "providing fact-based education to empower youth and adults to make the informed decision to live drug-free."

"Reaching out with a million Truth About Drugs booklets was a huge challenge," said one Non à la Drogue volunteer. "But we were welcomed by fans at Olympic venues and people we met on the streets. Shopkeepers saw the importance of sharing these booklets with their customers and were eager to take part in our outreach. We took on the challenge and hitting that target was amazing."

"I heard so many poignant stories from people of all ages and backgrounds. Nearly everyone we spoke to suffered personally or experienced the devastating effects of drug abuse on a loved one or friend," said another volunteer. "It was empowering to see how many people took our booklets seriously and wanted to contribute to our campaign."

Noting the role substance abuse plays in the disintegration of the social fabric, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

Foundation for a Drug-Free World was formed in 2006 to serve as a primary distributor of educational materials and to develop new materials to meet the challenge of continually changing drug trends. The Foundation has grown to a network of some 200 chapters around the world. Thanks to the support of the Church of Scientology and Scientologists, it provides the Truth About Drugs secular program and materials free of charge to anyone wishing to take action to address this urgent issue.

Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a nonprofit public benefit corporation that empowers youth and adults with factual information about drugs so they can make informed decisions and live drug-free. Through a worldwide network of volunteers, millions of drug prevention booklets have been distributed, and tens of thousands of drug awareness events have been held in some 180 countries. These materials and activities have helped people around the world learn about the destructive side effects of drugs and thereby make the decision for themselves not to use them. The Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

For more information or to take the Foundation's free online drug education course, visit drugfreeworld.org/course/.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

https://www.nonaladrogue.fr/

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/rvgb28J8OeY?si=6_jdgPkm_TLIp7Oo

With the eyes of the world on Paris, and some 6 million gathered in the city and other host venues for the 2024 Olympics, Foundation for a Drug-Free World organized a massive distribution of drug education booklets. Hundreds of volunteers from Non à la Drogue, Oui à la Vie (No to Drugs, Yes to Life Association) were delighted to find broad-based support from individuals and groups eager to contribute to the cause.

Related link: https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

Church of Scientology Community Center of Harlem Hosts Finale of the 18th Human Rights Summit

HARLEM, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Harlem is a crossroads of culture and innovation, a trend-setting community of global influence. This is one reason the Church of Scientology Community Center of Harlem is an ideal location for the final day of the 18th annual Human Rights Summit. Organized by United for Human Rights and its program for young people, Youth for Human Rights International, the annual summit provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to young advocates from around the world.

This year, more than 50 delegates representing 35 nations and territories gathered at United Nations headquarters in New York for the first two days of the three-day summit and the Church of Scientology Community Center of Harlem hosted the final day.

At the UN, these young humanitarians met ambassadors and representatives of permanent missions to the UN. Internationally recognized human rights icons shared their experience and expertise with the delegates. By taking part in panel discussions and meeting and networking with other delegates, they broadened their horizons. And delegates presented their human rights activities to the hundreds attending the Summit in United Nations Conference Room 4 and countless others watching on UN Web TV. But the delegates found the final day of the summit to be the key to the future success of their campaigns.

At the Church of Scientology Community Center of Harlem, delegates attended a workshop where they learned how to use human rights education to create lasting and meaningful change.

"It is youth who will shape the future," said United for Human Rights Executive Director Emma Sims, who led the workshop at the Harlem Community Center. "They have the energy and optimism to achieve their dreams. Our human rights materials give them the practical tools they need so they can put their ideas into action. Human rights education is the key to broad social change. When people understand their rights and the rights of others, they are far more engaged. Delegates can grow their initiatives by bringing many more people on board using these booklets and videos."

Ms. Sims presented each delegate with A Youth for Human Rights educator kit, containing all elements for the initiative. They learned how to use the educational materials to raise awareness of the 30 articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the vital role human rights education plays in creating social change. Then the delegates reviewed their own goals and formulated plans and programs to create the change they want to see.

The Church of Scientology of Harlem is an Ideal Scientology Organization, dedicated in July 2016 by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige. "This new Community Center represents not just an offer to help," said Mr. Miscavige to the thousands gathered for the grand opening, "but rather, our obligation and right to help. Because, no matter what makes each of us individuals, we all represent the brotherhood of man. And so there is no escaping the fact that anyone's suffering is also our suffering. And that none of us are free unless all of us are free. When you track that to the end of the blackboard, it becomes no less than our inviolate duty to introduce humanity to every last living soul. And thereby keep faith with the family of man."

The Church of Scientology and Scientologists support United for Human Rights and Youth for Human Rights, making it possible to provide these materials free of charge to educators, civic and community leaders, and anyone wishing to educate others on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The program was inspired by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who believed "Human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology-harlem.org

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/destination-scientology/harlem.html

https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k11/k11wf861th

Harlem is a crossroads of culture and innovation, a trend-setting community of global influence. This is one reason the Church of Scientology Community Center of Harlem is an ideal location for the final day of the 18th annual Human Rights Summit. Organized by United for Human Rights and its program for young people, Youth for Human Rights International, the annual summit provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to young advocates from around the world.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Citizens Commission on Human Rights Exhibit in Osaka Helps Protect Vulnerable Children

OSAKA, Japan /ScoopCloud/ -- A dramatic increase in the prescription of dangerous psychotropic drugs to Japanese children prompted Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) Japan and a group of concerned holistic professionals to organize a daylong call to action at the Osaka International Convention Center. More than 1,000 attended the sessions and toured the "Psychiatry: An Industry of Death Exhibit" to learn the cold, hard facts about psychiatry, its history, plans, practitioners, and the threat the industry poses to the country's children and future.

CCHR Japan Executive Director Yuzuru Ogura, who has directed the activities of this human rights watchdog since 2007, described how he and his team learned of the dangers of psychiatric drugs. Drugs often prescribed to youngsters increase violence and suicidality in children and young adults. CCHR documented abuse cases and provided this urgent information to Japan's Ministry of Health, which issued 66 black box warnings on psychiatric drugs-the strictest and most serious level warning that can be placed on a pharmaceutical product. Despite these warnings in Japan and many other countries, annual global sales of drugs prescribed for so-called learning disabilities bring in tens of billions of U.S. dollars.

Ogura explained why a tour of the Psychiatry: An Industry of Death Exhibit was incorporated into the seminar. "This exhibit demonstrates the need to protect society from psychiatric harm," he said.

The exhibit includes graphic images and footage of inhumane psychiatric procedures, including shock treatment and irreversible psychosurgery. They learned about the effects of mind-numbing drugs such as those used to silence dissidents in the gulags of the former Soviet Union. They learned of the role of psychiatrists in the deaths of world-famous artists.

"Now I understand why so many children are diagnosed with developmental disorders," said one woman, who realized, to her shock, that forcing kids to take mind-altering drugs is abuse. "I learned things I really needed to know."

A teacher, disturbed by the quantity of mind-altering drugs administered to pupils in her school, was relieved to find she was not alone-that there are many men and women committed to saving this generation of young people who are being robbed of their childhood and future.

"It is important to know the truth," said another who was among many conference participants who volunteered to help spread the campaign.

Citizens Commission on Human Rights is a mental health watchdog founded in 1969 by psychiatrist Thomas Szasz and the Church of Scientology, inspired by author, humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard and his commitment to abolishing any and all physically damaging practices in the field of mental health.

LEARN MORE:

https://cchrjapan.org/

https://www.cchrint.org

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/cchr-documentaries/psychiatry-an-industry-of-death.html

A dramatic increase in the prescription of dangerous psychotropic drugs to Japanese children prompted Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) Japan and a group of concerned holistic professionals to organize a daylong call to action at the Osaka International Convention Center. More than 1,000 attended the sessions and toured the "Psychiatry: An Industry of Death Exhibit" to learn the cold, hard facts about psychiatry, its history, plans, practitioners, and the threat the industry poses to the country's children and future.

Related link: https://www.cchr.org/

Michoacán Festival on L. Ron Hubbard Way Brings the Rich Culture of Mexico to East Hollywood

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Purépecha people of the state of Michoacán, Mexico, are famous for their unique culture, food, crafts, pottery and textiles. Award-winning chefs from the region, flown to Los Angeles for the Flavor of Michoacán Festival, proved that their cuisine is beyond compare. The festival, hosted by the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles on L. Ron Hubbard Way, began with a Mayan ceremony that invoked the spirits of Earth to bless the occasion.

Folk dancers in traditional costumes and masks delighted those attending with their performances.

The festival was created by Mr. Martin Cruz, president of the Chicano Latino Immigrant Democratic Club, who also produced a two-week Latin Festival on L. Ron Hubbard Way earlier this summer. Mr. Cruz praised the chefs, noting that their delight in their work is a classic example of one of his favorite passages from the works of Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard: "The greatest joy there is in life is creating. Splurge on it!"

The Church shares Mr. Cruz's belief in the importance of preserving and nurturing the cultures and traditions of the many communities that call Los Angeles home. The Church holds cultural festivals and family-friendly activities throughout the year.

An Ideal Scientology Organization, dedicated by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige in 2010, the Church of Scientology Los Angeles is designed to provide ideal facilities for Scientologists on their ascent to higher states of spiritual freedom and to serve as a home for the entire community-a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is featured in an episode of Inside Scientology on the Scientology Network, available on DIRECTV channel 320 and streaming at Scientology.tv, through mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo?si=t8Z2Vl9j20FaegOf

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/inside-a-church.html

The Purépecha people of the state of Michoacán, Mexico, are famous for their unique culture, food, crafts, pottery and textiles. Award-winning chefs from the region, flown to Los Angeles for the Flavor of Michoacán Festival, proved that their cuisine is beyond compare. The festival, hosted by the Church of Scientology of Los Angeles on L. Ron Hubbard Way, began with a Mayan ceremony that invoked the spirits of Earth to bless the occasion

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

18th International Human Rights Summit Unites Youth and Human Rights Icons in the Name of Peace

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- As 52 bright young delegates filed into Conference Room 4 at UN Headquarters in New York for the 18th International Human Rights Summit, hundreds attending rose to their feet for a standing ovation. United for Human Rights organizes the annual summit and selected the delegates from among hundreds of applicants based on their stellar record of human rights advocacy.

The youth, representing 35 countries, are living proof of the power of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights in the hands of passionate young advocates. But the delegates were not there for the praise and admiration, although they deserved it. Rather, they were determined to use this opportunity to improve their knowledge and skills to accomplish their humanitarian goals.

Dr. Mary Shuttleworth, president and founder of Youth for Human Rights International, the youth initiative of United for Human Rights, congratulated the delegates for what they have done and what they will do.

Ambassadors and representatives of the permanent missions to the UN of Australia, the Bahamas, Bolivia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste, and the United States welcomed the delegates and congratulated them for their advocacy. The Permanent Mission of Timor-Leste to the United Nations hosted the Summit, which live-streamed on UN Web TV.

United for Human Rights focuses on education as the key to achieving the goals of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Their acclaimed human rights educational materials forward the purpose of those who crafted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), whose preamble states:

"...that every individual and every organ of society, keeping this Declaration constantly in mind, shall strive by teaching and education to promote respect for these rights and freedoms and by progressive measures, national and international, to secure their universal and effective recognition and observance, both among the peoples of Member States themselves and among the peoples of territories under their jurisdiction."

The final day of the Summit was a cultural festival and workshop at the Church of Scientology Harlem Community Center. Each youth delegate was presented with a Youth for Human Rights educator's guide, which contains every element for implementing the program. The delegates then set their own goals, worked out programs for the coming year, and took part in a human rights outreach activity on Times Square in New York, where they put what they learned into practice by educating people on their 30 human rights.

United for Human Rights is a nonprofit, international education program sponsored by the Church of Scientology and Scientologists. Its aim is to create a sea change by teaching young people everywhere their inalienable rights, thus creating a generation of leaders who will demand full implementation of the 30 articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

United for Human Rights is inspired by author, humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who believed that "human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.humanrights.com

https://www.youthforhumanrights.org

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/30-rights-brought-to-life.html

VIDEO:

https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k11/k11wf861th?fbclid=IwY2xjawEjSwNleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHcgj-szRoiAPU-A7hNj52fnOYk15uxTHirKhygvz-qjDqaZldpaee2B0Gw_aem_NEokax4NQ7eSlXbY3YIU4A

As 52 bright young delegates filed into Conference Room 4 at UN Headquarters in New York for the 18th International Human Rights Summit, hundreds attending rose to their feet for a standing ovation. United for Human Rights organizes the annual summit and selected the delegates from among hundreds of applicants based on their stellar record of human rights advocacy.

Related link: https://www.humanrights.com/

Promoting the Magic of Hollywood with a Summer Cleanup

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Each month, Hollywood Village volunteers hold a neighborhood cleanup to keep Hollywood beautiful, safe, and clean. With visitors pouring into the city over the summer from around the world, this was not the season for the volunteers to take a vacation from their monthly initiative. Setting out from the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre, where they pick up their trash bags, shovels and brooms, volunteers took off to clean up the neighborhood.

To welcome those arriving in the neighborhood via the famous Hollywood Freeway, one team of volunteers tackled trash that had collected on a prominent offramp. Another team took on a go-to location for paparazzi and tourists wishing to catch a glimpse of celebrities dining at its trendy bistros.

After their cleanup, volunteers invite others to Set a Good Example and Safeguard and Improve Your Environment-principles featured in The Way to Happiness, a book of common-sense values that informs the initiative. They hand out copies of the booklet to those they meet and place boxes of The Way to Happiness in local takeouts, restaurants and shops to share with their customers.

"This is a new kind of moral code," says the coordinator of the project. "It was written by author and humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard. It not only includes values common to people of all faiths and backgrounds, it even provides tools you can use to change your life. I have seen this book create miracles."

Some months, their activities include creating murals and other artistic projects. Each November, they hold a massive cleanup to show Hollywood at its best for the annual Hollywood Christmas Parade.

Anyone wishing to join the initiative is invited to do so. Hollywood Village is a partnership of the Church of Scientology, The Way to Happiness Foundation, and the Los Angeles Police Department. It has grown into a community coalition of people of all faiths, ideologies and backgrounds, working together to make Hollywood shine.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology.cc

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/qTSzwI-qmsc?si=TMITwgtcqzbiyDVd

Each month, Hollywood Village volunteers hold a neighborhood cleanup to keep Hollywood beautiful, safe, and clean. With visitors pouring into the city over the summer from around the world, this was not the season for the volunteers to take a vacation from their monthly initiative. Setting out from the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre, where they pick up their trash bags, shovels and brooms, volunteers took off to clean up the neighborhood.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Empowering Youth and Adults with the Truth About Drugs

CITY OF MARKHAM, Ontario /ScoopCloud/ -- Each summer, thousands of visitors pour into the City of Markham, Ontario, for the Taste of Asia Festival. The vibrant event features performances, art, crafts and food representing dozens of nations from China to Japan and India to Indonesia-each unique and special. And every year since 2004, the Toronto chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World has reached out at the festival with its drug education and prevention campaign. Drug-Free World volunteers distribute the Foundation's acclaimed Truth About Drugs booklets, encouraging young and old to sign a pledge to live drug-free and to help families and friends make the same commitment.

As always, this year's festival was a dynamic tapestry of the best of Asian food and culture. But it played out against the stark reality of a serious threat to the lives and happiness of festival-goers from across the province. Ontario is in the midst of a drug overdose crisis. According to Drug-Free World volunteers, prevention has never been more important. City of Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti agreed. He presented a proclamation to Foundation for a Drug-Free World volunteers, marking the city's adoption of the UN International Day Against Drug Abuse, whose motto for 2024 is The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.

"Drug abuse is very serious," said Melanie Dickson-Smith, who heads the Toronto chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World which is supported by the Church of Scientology Toronto. "Now more than ever, youth need to be informed of the short- and long-term effects of drugs. We are very gratified to have the support of Mayor Scarpitti and Markham City Council in raising awareness of this issue."

Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit with consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Thanks to the support of Churches of Scientology and Scientologists, the Foundation makes its acclaimed secular drug education and prevention materials and programs available free of charge.

For decades, Scientologists have engaged in drug education and prevention in their communities, inspired by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

https://www.scientology-toronto.org/how-we-help/truth-about-drugs.html

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/SFaNBezJPc8?si=74Sg7gSPWiLtqRiu

Each summer, thousands of visitors pour into the City of Markham, Ontario, for the Taste of Asia Festival. The vibrant event features performances, art, crafts and food representing dozens of nations from China to Japan and India to Indonesia-each unique and special. And every year since 2004, the Toronto chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World has reached out at the festival with its drug education and prevention campaign.

Related link: https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

The UN Acknowledges Foundation for a Drug-Free World With Consultative Status

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs has granted the Foundation for a Drug-Free World consultative status to the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

This new status enables the Foundation to share decades of experience and expertise with those most dedicated to implementing effective drug prevention. Drug-Free World can now organize conferences and participate in events at the UN in Geneva, Vienna and New York.

"On behalf of all Drug-Free World chapters and millions of drug-prevention volunteers in countries around the world, we would like to express our appreciation for this recognition," said Foundation for a Drug-Free World Executive Director Jessica Hochman. "We pledge to not only continue our commitment but to redouble our efforts to bring about a drug-free world."

Each June, the UN issues its annual World Drug Report along with a theme for the year's activities. This year's message aligns exactly with the purpose and activities of the Foundation and its acclaimed drug education materials: "The evidence is clear: invest in prevention."

"We congratulate the Foundation for a Drug-Free World International and its volunteers, partners and supporters," said Olivia McDuff of the Church of Scientology International Public Affairs Office.

Thanks to the support of Churches of Scientology and Scientologists, the Foundation makes these acclaimed secular materials and programs available free of charge.

For decades, Scientologists have engaged in drug education and prevention in their communities, inspired by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-truth-about-drugs.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/they-said-they-lied.html

The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs has granted the Foundation for a Drug-Free World consultative status to the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Drug-Free World can now organize conferences and participate in events at the UN in Geneva, Vienna and New York.

Related link: https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

Nelson Mandela Day Celebration 2024: Honoring the Father of Peace in South Africa

LONDON, England /ScoopCloud/ -- Community and religious leaders gathered at the Church of Scientology London to celebrate International Nelson Mandela Day 2024, a day to honor the courage and persistence of the man who unified the Rainbow Nation and his commitment to equality, justice and freedom for all.

Imprisoned for 27 years for his active resistance and militant protest against apartheid, Mandela never stopped working and planning for peace. On his release from jail, Mandela demonstrated true character by forgiving his oppressors and uniting the racially divided country. He set an enduring example of peace and reconciliation for the world.

The Mandela Day event at the Church of Scientology of London featured a broad panorama of the diverse cultural and ethnic communities that call England home, from traditional Londoners to those hailing from Latin America, Yemen, India, Columbia, and Africa. The speeches and musical presentations were inspirational. And archival footage of Mandela addressing the United Nations truly crowned the celebration.

Tracey Coleman, Community Affairs Director for the Church of Scientology London, introduced those attending to the human rights educational materials of United for Human Rights and its program for young people, Youth for Human Rights. These acclaimed booklets and videos educate young and old on the 30 articles of the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights. United for Human Rights is a nonprofit, international education program. Its aim is to create a sea change by teaching people everywhere the inalienable rights enshrined in the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

In his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, published in 1994, Mandela wrote: "No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite."

It is in that very belief that the Church of Scientology and Scientologists worldwide sponsor United for Human. They are inspired by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard who believed that "human rights must be made a fact, not an idealistic dream." This support makes it possible for United for Human Rights to provide these materials free of charge to anyone wishing to use them to educate others on the UDHR.

The Church of Scientology London is an Ideal Scientology Organization, providing the full services of the Scientology religion to its parishioners and to the community. It was dedicated in 2006 by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige.

To learn more, visit the Church of Scientology London's website or watch Destination Scientology-London on the Scientology Network.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology-london.org

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/destination-scientology/london.html

PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-0801-s2p-COSLDN-300dpi.jpg

PHOTO CAPTION: Community and religious leaders gathered at the Church of Scientology London to celebrate the life of Nelson Mandela and his human rights legacy.

TAGS: #NelsonMandela #MandelaDay #ChurchOfScientologyLondon #UnitedForHumanRights #YouthForHumanRights

Community and religious leaders gathered at the Church of Scientology London to celebrate International Nelson Mandela Day 2024, a day to honor the courage and persistence of the man who unified the Rainbow Nation and his commitment to equality, justice and freedom for all.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Festival on L. Ron Hubbard Way Empowers the Honduran Community

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- More than 1,000 attended the first Honduran Fair for Entrepreneurs, held in East Hollywood earlier this month on L. Ron Hubbard Way. It was organized by the Honduras Consulate and hosted by the Church of Scientology Los Angeles with the purpose:

* To provide a venue for Honduran businesses to promote their products and services

* To furnish a job exchange and information on consular services, free health care and legal resources

* To build stronger relationships within the Honduran diaspora

* And to keep the culture, food, and traditions of Honduras alive.

The Festival provided a venue for some 50 Honduran entrepreneurs to promote their merchandise and services.

Ballet Folklorico HULA and the Children's Folkloric Ballet performed Honduran dances in traditional costumes, and the Punta Mania band entertained the crowd with the unique sounds of the Afro-Indigenous Garifuna people of the region.

A children's area included bouncy castles, inflatable games, traditional Honduran games and toys, along with ice cream, popcorn and cotton candy.

La Prensa described the festival as "a milestone in the integration and support of the Honduran diaspora in Los Angeles," and the consul general announced her plan to hold the fair twice a year in the same location. The Church of Scientology of Los Angeles will host the fairs as a service to the community.

The Church believes in preserving and honoring the languages, religions, and heritage of those living in L.A. County, a region of great diversity, with residents from some 140 nationalities speaking at least 80 different languages.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is an Ideal Scientology Organization, providing the full services of the Scientology religion to its parishioners and to the community. Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige dedicated the Church of Scientology Los Angeles in 2010. Since then, the Church has become known as a home for the entire community, a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations.

For more information, visit the Church of Scientology Los Angeles website or watch an episode of Inside Scientology on the Scientology Network, which features the Los Angeles Church.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo?si=t8Z2Vl9j20FaegOf

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/inside-a-church.html

PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-0731-s2p-COSHonduras-300dpi.jpg

Photo caption: The Honduran Fair for Entrepreneurs on L. Ron Hubbard Way promoted Honduran businesses, community services, and the culture, food, and traditions of the Honduran diaspora in Los Angeles.

TAGS: #ChurchOfScientologyLosAngeles #Festival #LRonHubbardWay #HonduranEntrepreneurs #Consulate #Culture #Traditions

More than 1,000 attended the first Honduran Fair for Entrepreneurs, held in East Hollywood earlier this month on L. Ron Hubbard Way. It was organized by the Honduras Consulate and hosted by the Church of Scientology Los Angeles with purpose.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Church of Scientology Forum on the Need for Sustainability

COPENHAGEN, Denmark /ScoopCloud/ -- At a community open house and forum organized by the Church of Scientology of Denmark and the local chapter of The Way to Happiness Foundation, guest speakers of diverse backgrounds shared their passion for nature, biodiversity, and sustainability.

An environmental project manager who operates under the Copenhagen Municipality spoke of her passion for urban green development. She explained the best plants for greening a city, what roses best promote insect survival and actions anyone may take to help create green oases-even in the center of town.

Next, a biodiversity expert made his passion clear by sharing his slogan: "Bee Engaged." His presentation brought home that the well-being of bees and other insects is vital to the survival of all life on Earth. In Europe, some 78 percent of native flora and 84 percent of crops are either partially or fully dependent on insects for pollination. Attendees were eager to learn about and participate in his upcoming projects.

The third guest speaker runs an organic farm and riding school in North Zealand. "There are no compromises when it comes to animal welfare," she said. Her unique approach to training people to ride and care for horses includes helping them learn to control the horses through communication, body movement, and clear intention rather than force.

The event was held in coordination with the Copenhagen chapter of The Way to Happiness Foundation, whose mission is to reverse society's moral decay by restoring trust and honesty through widespread distribution of The Way to Happiness, a common-sense guide to better living written by author and humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard. One precept of The Way to Happiness is "Safeguard and improve your environment."

The Church of Scientology Denmark is an Ideal Scientology Organization, configured to service Scientologists in their ascent to spiritual freedom and serve as a home for the entire community, a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations. It was dedicated in May 2017 by Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige. To learn more about the Church of Scientology of Denmark, visit their website or watch Destination: Scientology-Copenhagen on the Scientology Network.

LEARN MORE:

https://en.scientology-denmark.org/

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/destination-scientology/copenhagen.html

PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/24-0730-s2p-dk-forum-300dpi.jpg

PHOTO caption: Speakers at the open house at the Church of Scientology Denmark shared their passion for sustainability and caring for the environment.

TAGS: #WorldEnvironmentDay #Forum #ChurchOfScientologyDenmark #Sustainability #TheWayToHappiness #SafeguardAndImproveYourEnvironment

At a community open house and forum organized by the Church of Scientology of Denmark and the local chapter of The Way to Happiness Foundation, guest speakers of diverse backgrounds shared their passion for nature, biodiversity, and sustainability.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Rocking Out at a Drug-Free World Art and Music Festival at the Church of Scientology

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Church of Scientology Los Angeles and the local chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World organized a free outdoor summer concert and art show. Its purpose: to raise awareness about drugs and promote music and art as a drug-free alternative for a "natural high."

The concert featured Los Angeles-based popular acoustic-pop artist and singer/songwriter Nick Isham. Joined by a lineup of talented local musicians, Isham mixed his original songs live with his looper, combining beatboxing, guitar and vocals.

Graphic artists and photographers displayed their work along L. Ron Hubbard Way and vendors provided great food and refreshments.

The dark counterpoint to the upbeat concert and festival was the stark reality of the drug overdose epidemic affecting L.A. County and the rest of the country. The Los Angeles Times reports that despite a slight decline for the first time in a decade, more than 3,000 lost their lives to drug overdose in the county in 2023.

"I have seen firsthand how drugs destroy the lives of so many talented people," says Isham. "Drugs only hold you back. This is why I strongly advocate for kids to learn the truth about drugs. Knowing the facts, they can decide for themselves to live drug-free."

Foundation for a Drug-Free World, a volunteer-based nongovernmental organization (NGO) with a network of some 200 chapters around the world, recently earned consultative status to the United Nations.

Inspired by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard who found drugs to be "the single most destructive element present in our current culture," Scientology Churches and Scientologists support the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, making it possible to provide its acclaimed secular drug education and prevention materials and program free of charge.

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles is an Ideal Scientology Organization. To meet the ever-growing worldwide demand for Dianetics and Scientology services as well as Church-sponsored social betterment programs, Scientology ecclesiastical leader Mr. David Miscavige personally committed to accomplishing the goal of bringing all Scientology Churches to the standard of "Ideal." Ideal Churches provide the full range of services of the Scientology religion to their parishioners and serve as a home for the entire community, a meeting ground of cooperative effort to uplift people of all denominations. Mr. Miscavige dedicated the Ideal Church of Scientology Los Angeles in 2010.

For more information, watch an episode of Inside Scientology on the Scientology Network featuring the Church of Scientology Los Angeles.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.scientology-losangeles.org

VIDEO:

https://youtu.be/B0xMnowNCYo?si=t8Z2Vl9j20FaegOf

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/inside-a-church.html

The Church of Scientology Los Angeles and the local chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World organized a free outdoor summer concert and art show. Its purpose: to raise awareness about drugs and promote music and art as a drug-free alternative for a "natural high."

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Promoting the Value of Drug-Free Living at the UEFA Championship Games

BERLIN, Germany /ScoopCloud/ -- For an entire month, from June 14 to July 14, Drug-Free World volunteers from Scientology Churches and Missions throughout Germany and their partners reached out to fans at the UEFA European Championship games. They promoted the importance of drug-free living and shared their drug education and prevention campaign. They reached out and encouraged everyone they met to choose the drug-free, active lifestyle that is the basis of athletic success-one particularly important in the face of alarming drug trends.

While Europe has been spared the spiraling overdose deaths opioids have caused in America and Canada, the most recent European Union Drug Agency report warns of increased availability and use of cocaine, opioids, synthetics and psychoactive substances on the continent, along with a rise in homelessness, drug-related corruption and violent crime, and the importance of countering it with evidence-based drug prevention.

The drug-prevention initiative sponsored by the Scientology Churches and Scientologists of Germany is called the Sag Nein zu Droge (Say No to Drugs) campaign of Foundation for a Drug-Free World. Over the course of a month, at stadiums throughout the country, volunteers handed out hundreds of thousands of the Foundation's Truth About Drugs booklets.

Volunteers set up stands and mobile exhibits and held impromptu concerts. They walked people through the booklets and encouraged them to sign their drug-free pledge. They shared the unvarnished truth about the most commonly used drugs one-on-one with everyone they met. And they were gratified with the response they received.

Shopkeepers were eager to take stacks of the booklets for their customers. Many commented that with increased drug use in their neighborhood, there has also been more crime. They were happy to do something effective to counter what they see as an alarming trend.

A woman asked for several copies of the booklet. She knew some of her daughter's friends had begun experimenting with drugs and the booklet gave her the confidence she needed to have a heart-to-heart talk with her daughter.

A high school student said he was concerned about major mood shifts he's seen in some of his friends who are taking drugs. Reading the booklet, he realized drugs were probably behind this change and he wanted copies to give to his classmates.

And so it went in city after city, day after day, with local residents, people from out of town, from other European countries, and enthusiasts from abroad who timed their vacations to spend the month in Germany for the games.

Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a Los Angeles-based nonprofit with consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Thanks to the support of Churches of Scientology and Scientologists, the Foundation makes its acclaimed secular drug education and prevention materials and programs available free of charge.

For decades, Scientologists have engaged in drug education and prevention in their communities, inspired by humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

https://www.sag-nein-zu-drogen.de/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-truth-about-drugs.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/they-said-they-lied.html

IMAGE link for media:

https://bit.ly/4d8hWlD

Photo caption: Volunteers distributed Truth About Drugs booklets at the UEFA Championship Games throughout Germany.

TAGS: #UEFAChampionshipGames #DrugFreeWorld #TruthAboutDrugs #ChurchOfScientology #Germany

For an entire month, from June 14 to July 14, Drug-Free World volunteers from Scientology Churches and Missions throughout Germany and their partners reached out to fans at the UEFA European Championship games. They promoted the importance of drug-free living and shared their drug education and prevention campaign.

Related link: https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

Foundation for a Drug-Free World Drug Prevention Nonprofit Earns Consultative Status to the UN

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Drug-Free World has achieved a significant milestone. "We are thrilled to announce that the Foundation for a Drug-Free World has been granted Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council," posted the Foundation's executive director Jessica Hochman on X (formerly Twitter) on July 4. "Consultative Status allows the Foundation to formally contribute to the work of the United Nations by participating in conferences, providing expert advice on drug prevention strategies, and collaborating with other NGOs on shared goals. This amplified platform strengthens our ability to advocate for a drug-free world on a global scale."

The evidence is clear: invest in prevention

This new status provides the Foundation with an even greater ability to carry out its mission, in keeping with the UN's International Day Against Drug Abuse motto for this year--"The evidence is clear: invest in prevention."

"This is what has driven the Foundation's work since its inception," says Hochman. "Providing fact-based education to empower youth and adults to make the informed decision to live drug-free."

To take effective action, visit the Foundation for a Drug-Free World website, take the free online drug-education course or join or open a chapter of the Foundation.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

VIDEO:

https://www.drugfreeworld.org/drugfacts/the-truth-about-drugs.html

IMAGE link for media: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GRqqeqNbYAAeVJD?format=jpg&name=900x900

Photo caption: Foundation for a Drug-Free World is awarded Consultative Status to the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), a significant milestone in its global mission to empower youth with factual drug education and prevent drug abuse.

TAGS: #DrugFreeWorld #ECOSOC #UN #DrugPrevention #Education #Empowerment

Drug-Free World has achieved a significant milestone. "We are thrilled to announce that the Foundation for a Drug-Free World has been granted Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council," posted the Foundation's executive director Jessica Hochman on X (formerly Twitter) on July 4.

Related link: https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

Voices for Humanity Bikes Across Belgium for a Drug-Free Future With Julie Delvaux

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Network's VOICES FOR HUMANITY, the weekly series presenting heroic change makers from a variety of faiths, cultures and nations, working to uplift their communities, announces a new episode featuring antidrug activist Julie Delvaux, premiering on June 26, 2024.

VOICES FOR HUMANITY airs Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Scientology Network.

With over 60,000 drug-related crimes committed in one year alone, Belgium is struggling with the results of its casual approach toward drug usage. Julie Delvaux understands the link between "occasional" drug use and the dangerous path it can lead the nation's youth down, and so spearheads an educational movement to help people throughout the country live drug-free.

ABOUT JULIE DELVAUX

Born in Brussels, Belgium, Julie Delvaux moved to a small town in the Flanders region while still a child. There, as a teen, she succumbed to intense peer pressure to drink alcohol and smoke marijuana. Staying true to herself, she ultimately rejected the use of drugs and made a commitment to inform as many of the nation's youth as possible about their true dangers. After joining the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, Julie combined her mission with Belgium's love of biking, rolling out bike tours around the country to spread the antidrug message. Through her tours and media events, to date she has brought the message of Truth About Drugs to 14 percent of Belgium's population.

Julie Delvaux serves as the coordinator for the Foundation for a Drug-Free World Belgium.

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology and Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities. Scientology Network's innovative content has been recognized with more than 125 industry awards, including Tellys, Communitas, and Hermes Creative Awards.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and streams at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/julie-delvaux.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-truth-about-drugs.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/they-said-they-lied.html

Scientology Network's VOICES FOR HUMANITY, the weekly series presenting heroic change makers from a variety of faiths, cultures and nations, working to uplift their communities, announces a new episode featuring antidrug activist Julie Delvaux, premiering on June 26, 2024.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Drug-Free Czech ‘Cyclo-Run’ Celebrates 20 Years of Racing Throughout the Country to Reach Youth With the Truth About Drugs

PRAGUE, Czech Republic /ScoopCloud/ -- "Drug manufacturers, drug pushers and drug distributors are becoming more sophisticated," says Lukáš Bechyně, executive director of the Say No to Drugs-Say Yes to Life Association, an affiliate of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World. He and his team of drug prevention activists have just finished their 12-day Drug-Free Czech Cyclo-Run, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. The team cycles and runs throughout the Czech Republic with the Foundation's Truth About Drugs campaign to reach youngsters before they begin to experiment with toxic substances.

This year, the UN International Day Against Drug Abuse theme is "The evidence is clear: Invest in prevention," a motto the Drug-Free Czech Cyclo-Run volunteers are deeply committed to. They invest their time, energy and passion into reaching youth with the Truth About Drugs fact-based drug education initiative. In each town, they introduce mayors, educators and community leaders to the campaign. They then deliver drug education to the local youth, who run with the cyclists as they take off for the next stop in their nationwide campaign.

Bechyně says the need for drug education and prevention has never been more urgent. "There are more and more drugs on the market, and they have become accessible to younger and younger children," he says. "We used to give lectures to sixth and seventh graders, but today we begin two years earlier. We are finding some start using drugs as early as age ten." He and Vlastimil Špalek, Cyclo-Run founder and chairman of Drug-Free World Czech Republic, are committed to reaching all the youth in the country with the campaign.

According to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, "Prevention strategies based on scientific evidence working with families, schools, and communities can ensure that children and youth, especially the most marginalized and poor, grow and stay healthy and safe into adulthood and old age. For every dollar spent on prevention, at least ten can be saved in future health, social and crime costs."

The Drug-Free Czech Cyclo-Run volunteers are optimistic. They know the Truth About Drugs initiative works. Each year, people they have introduced the campaign to on earlier Cyclo-Runs share their success in using their drug education curriculum. As an ever-increasing number of towns adopt the program, they know they are on track to achieving their goal: a Drug-Free Czech Republic.

Noting the role substance abuse plays in the disintegration of the social fabric, Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard wrote, "Research has demonstrated that the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

Foundation for a Drug-Free World was formed in 2006 to serve as a primary distributor of educational materials and to develop new materials to meet the challenge of continually changing drug trends. The Foundation has grown to a network of some 200 chapters around the world. Thanks to the support of the Church of Scientology and Scientologists, it provides the Truth About Drugs secular program and materials free of charge to drug educators worldwide.

The Cyclo-Run for a Drug-Free Czech Republic is featured in an episode of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network. Voices for Humanity is an original series of short documentaries introducing changemakers from all faiths, cultures and nations as they extend help to their communities through Scientology-sponsored humanitarian programs.

The Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and streams at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms. Since launching, Scientology Network has been viewed in 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

https://rekninedrogam.cz/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/vlastimil-spalek.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-truth-about-drugs.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/they-said-they-lied.html

"Drug manufacturers, drug pushers and drug distributors are becoming more sophisticated," says Lukáš Bechyně, executive director of the Say No to Drugs-Say Yes to Life Association, an affiliate of the Foundation for a Drug-Free World. He and his team of drug prevention activists have just finished their 12-day Drug-Free Czech Cyclo-Run, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

Related link: https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

Scientology Network Anti-Drug Marathon Focuses on the Power of Prevention

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- On Wednesday, June 26, Scientology Network observes the UN's annual commemoration by airing the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking Marathon. The full day of programming puts the focus on the proven power of the Drug-Free World educational campaign to prevent people of all ages from ever trying drugs.

In the US, more than 70 percent of people who tried an illicit drug before the age of 13 have developed an addiction to alcohol or drugs. Worldwide, a recent estimate put the number of illegal drug users at around 296 million.

The approach to address this multifaceted challenge is reflected in this year's theme, "The evidence is clear: invest in prevention."

The special marathon event presents volunteers from across the globe featured on the Scientology Network original series Voices for Humanity. These heroes are educating everyone - from kids in schools to police departments and government officials - with Truth About Drugs materials and are making a meaningful impact on communities and entire nations.

One volunteer, Julie Delvaux, who spreads the message of the Truth About Drugs throughout Belgium and is featured on Voices for Humanity, states:

"Today there is a lot of incorrect information circulating about drugs. We give factual information to the youth. We want to inform them before the dealers do - with the Truth About Drugs campaign. I know that we are really paving the way for a drug-free society."

Backed by a massive network of volunteers and nearly 80,000 partnerships in 180 countries across six continents, Drug-Free World's message has reached over one billion people with an acclaimed package of antidrug educational materials.

The day's programming (beginning 9 a.m. ET) includes:

* Voices for Humanity, the only ongoing television series dedicated to those working in the streets, schools and communities to combat drugs and other major social ills

* PSAs to raise awareness of the devastating dangers of drugs, and

* The Truth About Drugs documentary, a powerful and comprehensive look into the true dangers of drugs, from marijuana, opioids and synthetic street drugs to the addictive pharmaceuticals marketed with slick Madison Avenue advertising campaigns.

See the full schedule at Scientology.tv/schedule.

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology and Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities. Scientology Network's innovative content has been recognized with more than 125 industry awards, including Tellys, Communitas, and Hermes Creative Awards.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-truth-about-drugs.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/they-said-they-lied.html

On Wednesday, June 26, Scientology Network observes the UN's annual commemoration by airing the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking Marathon. The full day of programming puts the focus on the proven power of the Drug-Free World educational campaign to prevent people of all ages from ever trying drugs.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/

Start Your Engines and Join the Race: Help Create a Drug-Free World

BERGAMO, Italy /ScoopCloud/ -- Bikers throughout Northern Italy are getting their bikes ready for the race for a Drug-Free Italy. Held to promote the UN International Day Against Drug Abuse, the 7th annual national Say No to Drugs Motogiro Nazionale (motorbike tour) races in support of the UN's theme for 2024: "The evidence is clear: Invest in prevention." The race is organized by Dico No Alla Droga (Say No to Drugs) Italy-the national chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World.

This year's UN campaign emphasizes the need "to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of drug use, including physical and psychological harm, overdose deaths, and societal problems," and "the need for evidence-based policies based on science, human rights, compassion, and knowledge." It is for exactly this reason that the Foundation's Truth About Drugs initiative exists.

"People are not well informed about what drugs are and what they do," says the campaign's national executive director for Italy, Oreste Depaoli. "There are active campaigns in our society that make it look like drugs do no harm," he says. But if people understand what drugs are and what they really lead to, they can make their own decisions on this vital subject and opt to live drug-free.

The world's largest nongovernmental drug education program, active in 196 nations, the Foundation's Truth About Drugs initiative has been filling the need for evidence-based drug education for more than 25 years. Experience has proven that scare tactics don't work, but factual, specific, and well-documented information does, which is exactly what the Foundation's Truth About Drugs initiative provides.

The Say No to Drugs Motogiro Nazionale is one of many drug prevention events taking place this month throughout Italy. The work of Oreste Depaoli and Dico No Alla Droga Italy to save youth throughout the country from the devastating effects of drugs is featured in an episode of Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network.

Scientology Churches and Scientologists support the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, whose materials are provided free of charge to schools, civic groups, governments, law enforcement, and individuals and institutions in the private sector. The Truth About Drugs program is inspired by author, humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, who found that "the single most destructive element present in our current culture is drugs."

To learn more, take the free drug education course on the Foundation for a Drug-Free World website, watch the Drug-Free World public service announcements and The Truth About Drugs-Real People, Real Stories documentary on the Scientology Network, and episodes of Voices for Humanity to see the program in action. The Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and streams at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps, and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

For more information or to get involved, visit the Drug-Free World website, or contact the nearest Church of Scientology.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.drugfreeworld.org

https://www.facebook.com/ASDDICONOALLADROGA

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/voices-for-humanity/oreste-depaoli.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/the-truth-about-drugs.html

https://www.scientology.tv/documentaries/they-said-they-lied.html

Bikers throughout Northern Italy are getting their bikes ready for the race for a Drug-Free Italy. Held to promote the UN International Day Against Drug Abuse, the 7th annual national Say No to Drugs Motogiro Nazionale (motorbike tour) is organized by Dico No Alla Droga (Say No to Drugs) Italy-the national chapter of Foundation for a Drug-Free World.

Related link: https://www.drugfreeworld.org/

Empowering Women To Improve Their Inner Health

LOS ANGELES, Calif. /ScoopCloud/ -- Dr. Anne Dunev, naturopathic practitioner and certified homeopath, empowered women at the Ultimate Women's Expo in June with a presentation on the "body-mind connection" and how to overcome negative emotions using the best-selling book "Dianetics" published by Bridge Publications.

Dr. Dunev has a particular passion for helping patients from the inside out, and after 33 years in practice, she emphasizes that the mind is the key to reaching one's optimal state of health. Imparting this perspective, she was a guest speaker at the Ultimate Women's Expo where she shared techniques with women looking to unburden themselves of doubts and insecurities that hold them back from unleashing their full potential.

"After so many years, I finally understood where my self doubts came from and why certain things in life mysteriously triggered me. With the techniques in "Dianetics," I was able to remove the negative aspect of past emotions - for good. I always knew that one's outer self mirrors one's inner health and for the first time I had a way to improve that inner health naturally," says Dunev.

As a naturopath, Dr. Dunev is constantly assessing her patients' current state and guiding them towards more optimum health. "Unfortunately, in today's society, it is all too common for individuals to be prescribed psychotropic drugs at the first mention of physical or mental illness, without ever getting to the root problem," she says. A National Center for Health Statistics Data Brief (No. 419) noted that mental health treatment of any kind in a 12-month tracking period was 57 percent higher for women than men and that women were nearly twice as likely as men to have taken medication for their mental health. Such findings can indicate the need for more cautious and holistic approaches to mental health treatment to ensure that underlying issues are properly addressed rather than immediately resorting to medications that can be harmful.

In collaboration with Bridge Publications, the publisher of "Dianetics" by L. Ron Hubbard, Dunev encouraged women to get free emotion checks at the Ultimate Women's Expo. After receiving her check, one woman remarked, "I typically keep to myself and often avoid socializing, but I'm incredibly grateful I stepped out today to the Women's Expo and discovered 'Dianetics.'"

Dr. Dunev says she is proud of assisting hundreds of women at the expo to learn more about their inner emotions. "These days, we all need as much help as we can get. To me, there is nothing better than helping women help themselves."

"Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health" is the all-time best-selling book on the human mind. It is translated into 50 languages with more than 22 million copies sold worldwide. Bridge Publications, located in Los Angeles, California, is the publisher of the nonfiction works of international best-selling author L. Ron Hubbard. For more information, visit www.bridgepub.com, www.dianetics.org and www.dianetics.tv.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

https://www.bridgepub.com/about/

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/bridge-publications.html

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eae3ZomZAYE

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/bridge-publications.html

Dr. Anne Dunev, naturopathic practitioner and certified homeopath, empowered women at the Ultimate Women's Expo in June with a presentation on the "body-mind connection" and how to overcome negative emotions using the best-selling book "Dianetics" published by Bridge Publications.

Related link: https://www.bridgepub.com/

Citizens Commission on Human Rights Demands the Royal College of Psychiatrists End the Use of ECT and All Coercive Psychiatric Practices

EDINBURGH, Scotland /ScoopCloud/ -- The UN and World Health Organization issued mental health guidance in October 2023, but the Royal College of Psychiatry (RCPsych) has still failed to direct members to comply. They have not directed members to cease using ECT (electroconvulsive treatment) and have not demanded an end to involuntary commitment. Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) staged a march through Edinburgh and a protest at the RCPsych annual International Congress, demanding the organization immediately act to protect the human rights and health of the people of the UK.

The UN guidance states: "Coercive practices in mental health care violate the right to be protected from torture or cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment." It calls for informed consent before any use of ECT, stating individuals who are "offered ECT should also be made aware of all its risks and potential short- and long-term harmful effects, such as memory loss and brain damage." And it states ECT on children "should be prohibited through legislation." The UK must act now to protect the human rights of those caught in the mental health system, says CCHR.

According to the UK National Health Service 2022-23 report, there were 51,312 cases of involuntary commitment in the UK that year alone. What's more, the National Health Service paid for 1,989 acute courses of ECT to 1,835 individual patients in 2021. (An acute course of ECT is 6 to 12 treatments.) In 2019, more than a third of the ECTs administered were carried out without patient consent, 18 percent of which were even carried out without the second opinion required by the National Health Service.

To raise awareness of the need for immediate action to end these and other harmful practices, CCHR brought its Psychiatry: An Industry of Death Traveling Exhibit to Edinburgh to coincide with the Royal College of Psychiatrists 2024 International Congress. That visitors to the exhibit at the Edinburgh Training and Conference Venue at 16 St Mary's St. in Edinburgh were shocked to learn the facts and the history of ECT and other inhumane psychiatric practices is clear from feedback of those who toured:

* An Austrian psychologist said she was sure that ECT was no longer used in her country and was horrified to learn that it is.

* A veterinary nurse said that if an animal is aggressive, it would be tested thoroughly to see what medical and physical problems might be causing it. It would not simply be given a drug. "Why don't they do that with people?" she asked. She herself has been on Prozac for 15 years and has tried several times unsuccessfully to withdraw from it.

* A Spanish psychologist who has seen ECT being used in hospitals asked CCHR to bring the exhibit to Spain to help bring reform to his country.

Citizens Commission on Human Rights is a mental health watchdog founded in 1969 by psychiatrist Thomas Szasz and the Church of Scientology, inspired by author, humanitarian and Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard and his commitment to abolishing any and all physically damaging practices in the field of mental health.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.cchr.org

https://www.cchrint.org

https://www.cchr.org.uk/

https://www.scientologynews.org/press-releases/

MULTIMEDIA:

https://www.cchr.org.uk/cchr-audio-dvd/

The UN and World Health Organization issued mental health guidance in October 2023, but the Royal College of Psychiatry (RCPsych) has still failed to direct members to comply. They have not directed members to cease using ECT (electroconvulsive treatment) and have not demanded an end to involuntary commitment. Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) staged a march through Edinburgh and a protest at the RCPsych annual International Congress, demanding the organization immediately act to protect the human rights and health of the people of the UK.

Related link: https://www.cchr.org/

Inside the 21st-Century Cathedral of the World’s Youngest Major Religion

CLEARWATER, Fla. /ScoopCloud/ -- Scientology Network's INSIDE SCIENTOLOGY, the exclusive series that provides unprecedented access to the facilities and behind-the-scenes operations of the Church of Scientology, presents Flag.

INSIDE SCIENTOLOGY airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Scientology Network.

This week's episode of INSIDE SCIENTOLOGY travels to the spiritual headquarters of the Church of Scientology in Clearwater, Florida. Known the world over as Flag, this awe-inspiring, 21st-century cathedral is an architectural masterpiece.

But what draws Scientologists from 159 nations across the globe are the services provided within, the spiritual technology of L. Ron Hubbard that is the beating heart of the fastest-growing religion on Earth.

This episode is the ultimate inside look, opening the doors for viewers, taking them on a floor-by-floor tour of the 377,000-square-foot facility, the largest Scientology structure in the world. It delves into the history of Flag, the construction, the architecture, the art, the purpose and the people.

Cameras explore the stunning atrium where the beliefs of Scientology are on display in physical form with breathtakingly beautiful sculptures. Viewers are even taken inside the high-tech realm of Super Power, a Scientology service that rehabilitates one's perceptions as a spiritual being.

They also hear from the global mix of Scientologists who travel to Clearwater to experience Flag and some of the 2,000 staff members who do everything from delivering Scientology services to maintaining the central energy plant that powers the campus. The episode underscores how Flag has fused centuries-old tradition with new millennium spiritual technology to create this unique Church and religious retreat.

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology and Founder L. Ron Hubbard, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. Scientology Network's innovative content has been recognized with more than 125 industry awards, including Tellys, Communitas, and Hermes Creative Awards.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at Scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

LEARN MORE:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/

VIDEO:

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/flag.html

https://www.scientology.tv/series/inside-scientology/clips/flag-trailer.html

Scientology Network's INSIDE SCIENTOLOGY, the exclusive series that provides unprecedented access to the facilities and behind-the-scenes operations of the Church of Scientology, presents "Flag." INSIDE SCIENTOLOGY airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Scientology Network.

Related link: https://www.scientology.org/