LGBTQIA+ Support for Drug Reforms

It would be fair to say that many in the LGBTQIA+ communities take a liberal or libertarian approach to regulation of marijuana, recognising the benefits of the drug in many areas of physical and emotional ailments.  So, many were interested to read the progressive newswire Mother Jones on Monday 22nd July.  A coalition of drug reform organisations including National Cannabis Industry Association, Drug Policy Alliance and Marijuana Justice had joined together to urge people to make their voices heard before midnight Washington Time.  In a press release, the groups said "The Biden Administration’s Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has just proposed that marijuana be rescheduled from Schedule I to Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act.  Under this new classification, most marijuana activity will remain criminalized under federal law regardless of state-laws authorizing medical and/or adult use programs.   In order to end marijuana criminalization and its harms, marijuana must be removed entirely from the CSA, or descheduled.    Before making a final decision regarding marijuana rescheduling, the DEA is soliciting feedback from the public through a public comment period.    

• This is a rare and important opportunity for members of the public, especially individuals and communities most impacted by federal marijuana criminalization, to have their voices heard and to show support for federal marijuana policy reforms beyond rescheduling.
• By participating in the public comment process, you can educate federal leaders on the continuing harms of criminalization and the need for broader reforms."
• The coalition made several key demands and suggestions to the Biden administration:
• Support Decriminalization.

  Amplify Voices of Underserved Communities. Communities most impacted by federal criminalization deserve a seat at the table as federal marijuana policies are being reevaluated.

  Demanding Public Policy That Reflects Public Opinion. Numerous polls show that a majority of Americans support marijuana legalization and decriminalization. This public comment period allows us to push for policies that align with public sentiment.