Published June 19, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. EST by Matthew Claxton, Langley Advance Times
I’m deeply grateful to the Langley Advance Times and journalist Matthew Claxton for shedding light on the covert abuse that occurred at John Volken Academy. This article—“Petition seeks former clients of John Volken Academy”—is an important step in exposing the truth and amplifying the voices of those who were impacted.
Even years later, the reality remains crystal clear: individuals struggling with mental health and substance use challenges are often the most vulnerable to exploitation. This is not due to weakness, but because our society continues to dismiss the complex biopsychosocial roots of these issues—reducing them to simplistic personal failings instead of understanding them for what they are.
Many knew what was happening—not only at this facility, but at others like it. And yet, few survivors are ever truly heard. The stigma surrounding mental illness and addiction continues to silence, discredit, and isolate those most affected. That silence is precisely what allows abuse to persist across these so-called “rehabilitation” settings.
Please take a moment to read this piece. I hope it opens the door for further action, accountability, and dialogue. To those who have experienced similar treatment: your voice matters. You are not alone. I encourage you to speak out—because real change only comes when we refuse to stay silent.
Thank you again to Matthew Claxton and the Langley Advance Times for your critical reporting.
👉 Read the article here
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