CANNABIS

BARBARA ELLEN'S article ( ODT , 7.11.01) initially appeared to be an
objectionable attack on cannabis users, reinforcing a number of negative,
stereotypes and prejudices. However, it became clear that among Ellen's
contempt for cannabis and cannabis users was a grudging acceptance that
cannabis law reform is inevitable and timely.

It's not simply because prohibition is unjust, even though it is. It's not
just that the law is unworkable, as has been the case for decades. What is
really going to help move this law reform forward is the fact that many
successful middle-aged people all over the world do smoke, or have smoked,
cannabis. Cannabis use can no longer be considered a deviant activity.
Similarly cannabis prohibition can no longer be considered a legitimate or
useful policy. The sooner that those who advocate imposing degradation and
injustice on the lives of hundreds of thousands of Kiwi cannabis smokers
realise this, the better.

Duncan Eddy

National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, Dunedin