CT’s 5th Annual Marijuana March – Fighting for Legalization in CT
This past Saturday, I decided to wake up early to support and spread the truth of cannabis in Hartford. We set up just outside the State Capitol in Bushnell Park to fighting for legalization in CT. The general assembly was in session, trying to figure out the financial budget crisis Connecticut is currently facing. “The legislature’s nonpartisan analysts and Malloy’s budget office both say that finances, unless adjusted, will run $2.2 billion to $2.3 billion in deficit next fiscal year, and $2.7 billion to $2.8 billion the year after that.” (CT Mirror) This event could not have come at a better time for people to gather and discuss the recreational cannabis possibilities. While recreational cannabis may not be the be-all and end-all for all of our financial issues, it truly can be the first step in the right direction.
Weather Cannot Stop Progress
I packed up the car and drove over to pick up Tha Red Baron for the drive up for some fun, music and festivities. The day started with some light rain, but it was the high winds which attempted to destroy everyone’s time. Perseverance pushed us all through however. When the canopies started flying into the air like kites, the community was there to help the vendors and information booths rebuild. It wasn’t too long before the sun started peeking out from behind the clouds and people started to assemble in front of the stage. What started as a dreary morning proved to be a great day for Connecticut’s 5th Annual Marijuana March – Fighting for Legalization in CT hosted by Hemp CT. I have to say the event’s host, Cindy Day, did an amazing job organizing the event and her dedication was evident in the event’s success. Everyone seemed to be active, asking questions, talking, smoking, enjoying the speakers and live music. Even Tha Red Baron hopped on stage for a set. The day could not have been more inviting.
Diversity
There were friendly faces everywhere, medical patients, recreational users and some who knew nothing about the plant but wanted to understand our stance. I personally met some new amazing people interested in what recreation could become. I was very proud to be a part of this historic moment during a high politically motivated environment. Recreational cannabis can be in our future, if we keep pushing towards the end of prohibition. This country has not seen this type of movement since the end of alcohol prohibition and we have all seen what the industry giant has become. The possibilities could be endless, not only for medical patients, but for those of us who like a toke every now and then.
Contact Your Representatives
I was ecstatic to find out we even had a gubernatorial candidate present at the event. I was pleased to be able to introduce myself to the former state Commissioner of the Department of Consumer Protection, Jonathan Harris. He was instrumental in the creation and expansion of the Connecticut Medical Program. It is important we understand where our candidates stand on cannabis, as for Mr. Harris, his actions are well documented. He has a strong understanding of the plant, its beneficial uses and agrees the stigmas associated to cannabis are a farce. If you are interested in his campaign please check out his Facebook page, Harris for Connecticut, and give him a like and or share. I believe his attendance was a monumental display of dedication to the community, for that I applaud him.
Not the Stereotypical “Stoners”
We are not criminals, we are not a drain on society, we are not complacent, we are the future and we demand the truth. We are all here as a testament that cannabis is not to be feared, but to be enjoyed by all. In a world, where we embrace the dangers of alcohol and nicotine, it is time that we stand to break the chains which hinder mainstream cannabis. While I do not agree with the prohibition of alcohol, I do see it as more of a danger to society than a little weed. I hope soon we can all see and end to this propaganda.
What is Next?
When we started to pack up for the night, I could only think of what is next. The fight is not over and we need to continue our dedicated efforts toward recreation and the expansion of the state medical program. A legal market in Connecticut can help everyone with the creation of a new industry, jobs, and taxes. We can provide local farmers with a real cash crop alternative to tobacco, not to mention a lower cost of cannabis for all to enjoy. Imagine being able to grow at home like you can with any fruit or vegetable. If you lack the time or effort to grow your own, you don’t have to go without, you could simply go to a store for your purchase.
This is the United States that I’m proud to be a citizen, this is the type of freedom I wanted to fight for and defend. The current political environment within the state is why I continue to live here. I can almost taste the victory, but we need to stay united and focused on our goal. The best way to spread the word is to talk about cannabis in your daily conversation, don’t be afraid of the stigmas. You will never know who is listening and could benefit from your knowledge.
-Dabbin Dad
