POT PROHIBITION DEADLY

There is a big difference between condoning marijuana use and protecting
children from drugs (NOW, January 9-15). Decriminalization acknowledges
the social reality of marijuana and frees users from the stigma of
life-shattering criminal records. As long as marijuana distribution
remains in the hands of organized crime, consumers will continue to come
into contact with addictive drugs like cocaine. Marijuana may be
relatively harmless, but marijuana prohibition is deadly. Canada should
follow the lead of Europe and just say no to the American Inquisition.

Robert Sharpe

Drug Policy Alliance

Washington, DC