Pubdate: Sun, 30 Jul 2000 Source: Chicago Sun-Times (IL) Copyright: 2000 The Sun-Times Co. Contact: 401 N. Wabash, Chicago IL 60611 Feedback: http://www.suntimes.com/geninfo/feedback.html Website: http://www.suntimes.com/ Author: Rich Silverman END WAR ON DRUGS It was heartening to read the editorial "Dialogue can spur new look at drugs" [July 19]. More and more people across the country are realizing the extent of damages to our civil liberties and society that the so-called war on drugs has caused. In order to call further attention to this topic, and to spur the national debate we so desperately need, it is important for outlets like yours to speak up on this issue. People are afraid to broach this difficult topic, mired as it is in politics, race and big business. If we can show people that there is no reason to be afraid--no reason to fear changes to the devastating effect that drug laws have had on our country (search and seizure, "driving while black," mandatory minimum sentencing, etc.)--then the sensible regulation of drugs can begin, and with it, the healing of our damaged society. Rich Silverman, Lake View - --- MAP posted-by: Derek