For 50 years, survivors of Lake Alice, with support from the Citizen’s Commission on Human Rights (NZ), have tirelessly pursued justice. Their dedication prompted a UN investigation, compelling the government to acknowledge the abuse and start compensating victims. Tonight, @CCHR-NZ is honored as the 2025 Mitre 10 Community of the Year Winner.
For five decades, survivors of the Lake Alice psychiatric unit have fought to expose the horrific abuse they endured and bring about lasting change for those in state care. Their relentless pursuit of justice, alongside the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), has now been recognized with the Community of the Year award at the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards.
CCHR director Mike Ferriss, along with survivors Bruce Harkness and Karilyn Wildbore, accepted the award at a gala event in Auckland’s Viaduct Events Centre. Judges commended their unwavering efforts for justice, recognition, and compensation, acknowledging the long battle that ultimately led to a United Nations investigation and a Royal Commission of Inquiry.
Since the 1970s, CCHR has been at the forefront of exposing the abuses at Lake Alice, where children and adolescents were subjected to inhumane treatment, including electroshock therapy as punishment. Ferriss and his team fought against government denials and institutional cover-ups, eventually securing a ruling from the UN Committee Against Torture in 2020. This forced the New Zealand Government to acknowledge the abuse and commit to compensation, with survivors receiving $2.67 million as part of the redress process.
Through decades of advocacy, Lake Alice survivors and CCHR have not only ensured recognition for victims but have also driven systemic change to prevent future abuse in state care. Their courage and persistence have left a lasting impact, ensuring that survivor voices are heard and that those responsible are held accountable.
Leave a Reply