Pubdate: Wed, 18 Apr 2001
Source: Mountain Xpress (NC)
Copyright: 2001 Mountain Xpress
Contact:  http://www.mapinc.org/media/941
Website: http://www.mountainx.com/
Author: Jason Klein
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v01/n549/a03.html

COMMUNITY OF COMPASSION RESPONSIBLY ADVOCATES CANNABIS AWARENESS

In response to the letter submitted by E. Scruggs [March 28]:

The "Cannabis Clowns" are not to be commended for their immature
behavior. In their public antagonism of Asheville's City Council, they
are giving both the Council and the public a negative impression of the
issues associated with Cannabis. If they truly wanted to lend their
support to the cause, they would do so in a dignified and respectful
way.

The local campaign advocating the economic, environmental, medical and
political benefits of Cannabis has been led by the Community of
Compassion. In the last year, C of C has sponsored many events to
responsibly generate publicity and awareness of Cannabis-related issues,
including a referendum encouraging reprioritization of marijuana arrests
in the City and a political forum with Barbara Howe, Libertarian
candidate for governor in last year's election. Further, in order to
boost awareness of the U.S. Supreme Court hearings on the
medical-necessity defense for Cannabis use, Community of Compassion held
a demonstration [two weeks ago] at Vance Memorial. At noon on May 5 in
City/County Plaza, C of C will be the local sponsor of a worldwide
festival in support of All-Things-Cannabis.

So, Ms. Scruggs, that's what the Community of Compassion has done -- and
is doing and will continue to do -- in order to responsibly and
respectfully advocate for Cannabis awareness.

Jason Klein, member, Community of Compassion
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MAP posted-by: Doc-Hawk