BAFFLED

Dig,

Ah, sometimes your readers baffle me. In a letter to the editor two weeks
ago ("Marijuana Use Supports Terrorism," Issue #4.39), Matt Helm attempts
to place blame on cannabis users for the supposed criminal activities of
some third world countries. Never mind the fact that it is estimated that
roughly half of the cannabis consumed in the US is also grown in the US.
Never mind that it is the illegality of cannabis that drives the prices
through the roof, allowing criminal organizations the huge profits used to
fund their violent activities. Obviously Mr. Helm learned all he needs to
know about bad drug policies from the criminals who run this country.

Please Mr. Helm, don't just parrot the prohibitionist party line. The truth
is out there; find out for yourself what's really causing crime: It's the
prohibition on freedom, not the drugs.

Sincerely, Jeremy Cranfill

(Sometimes our readers baffle me too, but not lately. Helm's letter
generated over a half-dozen letters in response, all offering similar
criticisms, as you did, of his logic and voicing support for the end of
marijuana prohibition. Unfortunately, we lack the space to run them all,
but that doesn't mean we aren't aware of the overwhelming call for a change
in current drug policy.

Peace,

Joe Bonni