CANNABIS MADNESS

Editor:

I am writing in regards to the Aug. 29 editorial, "DEA wrong tact for
taxpayers."

Indeed, the Drug Enforcement Administration should be part of the
debate. Their role in this Prohibition II is a shaky one at best and
a criminal one at worst.

Whether burying studies showing positive medical attributes for
cannabis (1974, Medical College of Virginia, NIH study found THC
slowed the growth of three kinds of cancer in mice lung and breast
cancer, and a virus-induced leukemia) or stealing medicine from
patients, the DEA has subverted our principles of liberty and democracy.

Prohibition II is a failure. A failure precisely because it mirrors
our earlier 20th century failed attempt at prohibiting alcohol. There
are many agencies of government that need upbraiding for abusive
excesses committed under the guise of "protecting" our citizens
against the so-called evils of pot.

But, as more studies continue to appear showing not just cannabis'
efficacy as a medicine, but that previously declared physical harms
don't exist (Tashkin, UCLA, 2006, cannabis does not cause cancer),
the glaring assault on those most able to benefit from this ancient
herb (our MS patients, patients with cancer and AIDS, rheumatoid
arthritis, etc.) cannot be easily dismissed.

It is about time the opponents of Prohibition II have a chance to
publicly make their case. Having the DEA involved only provides more
chance for the truth to be told.

Allan Erickson

Drug Policy Forum of Oregon

Eugene, Ore.