BLOWING SMOKE

Re: Cellucci Assails Pot Law, Nov. 10.

Most Americans disagree with ambassador Paul Cellucci's oft-expressed
antagonism to marijuana law reform. Moreover, as a dual citizen and
resident of a border city, I can say from experience that Mr. Cellucci's
stated concerns about border wait times are nothing more than a red
herring. In today's fear-based climate, the last thing that border guards
should be concerned about is marijuana smuggling. As the article notes,
less than 2% of the marijuana consumed in the United States comes from
Canada. Moreover, there is little evidence that "decriminalization"
increases either the supply of, or demand for, marijuana.

Mr. Cellucci's comments should be seen for what they are: U.S. government
propaganda designed to influence Canadian domestic policy. Given that the
U.S. drug policy has been extremely destructive, at home and abroad,
listening to the advice of the U.S. government on this issue is akin to
seeking ethical guidance from Enron's accountants.

Kirk Tousaw, Detroit, Mich.