I don't smoke anymore. My sole reason for quitting was to keep my job. However, in the back of my head most of the time was the punishment I was facing if I got caught. When I was young, I would constantly scream about legalization, until I came to the realization that a step this big is simply not feasible at this time.
However, I DO belive that change is possible in small increments. After watching the argument regarding Marc Emery on 60 minutes on Sunday, I felt compelled to say something.
Transcript
Am I the only one who feels that a grassroots demonstration for DECRIMINALIZATION would be an appropriate response by Americans who feel strongly about this issue? I feel that civil disobedience on Marc's part is not only commendable, but admirable. He's not only harmless, but he knows how to convey his message without getting too emotional. He was arrested on camera in Canada during the segment, and seems to do a great job of keeping a crowd calm (we're not talking rocket science here, we're talking about pacifist potheads).
My goal: Mirror Canada's policy on marijuanna ONLY. I don't want to smoke in public. I don't even want to smoke. I just don't want to worry about drug dealers with guns selling a harmless drug. I think that bigger drugs that this SHOULD be illegal. Fear and anxiety due to laws is something that directly contradicts the nature of a pothead. The laws in Canada are fine. When Marc got arrested he was held for 24 hours and fined $200. This creates incentive to smoke inside and not make a lot of noise. The DEA's goal is to extradite Marc and give him up to life in prison. Seem hard to believe? Follow the above link and read the transcript.
The biggest problem with action on this issue is getting addicts off their asses. 4/20 is right around the corner, and this seems to bring them out of the woodwork. The other thing to worry about is fear. But there's strength in numbers, and if there's about 50 people who are willing to be arrested for their cause, I think a responsible lawyer with a healthy ego would take interest. A reputable lawyer. Control is the last issue. No deception, people smoking on the Mall in front of the capital building are probably going to get arrested. This has to be made known, and it must be accepted. Not only that, but I think that duct tape keeps people pretty quiet, and holes can be cut for joints.
Peace is a process that can achieve anything. Anybody willing to step up in the DC area? Anybody see anything wrong with this? Questions? Comments? Hatemail? I'm open to everything :)