Pubdate: Tue, 09 Sep 2003
Source: Stillwater News Press (OK)
Copyright: 2003 Stillwater News Press
Contact:  http://www.stwnewspress.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/789
Author: Nelda Sander
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth)

WE'LL BE BACK

I hope Darlyn Shenold will revisit the "Hemp Tent" at the fair next
year. We'd like another chance to talk with her. First, like herself,
the Drug Policy Forum is vitally concerned about the children. Reform
of drug laws, perhaps even legalization, is with the aim of shutting
off the unregulated black market that now menaces our kids.

Second, she seems to believe that only druggies could want less
draconian drug laws. Our membership is partly people whose children
have run afoul of drugs.

They have seen the horrible way our system treats them. People in the
thrall of meth or cocaine need help, but instead get punishment. If
they do get clean, their record prevents them from getting school
loans or good jobs, so their lives are ruined, as much by the laws as
by the drugs.

Had she visited the "Hemp Tent" while I was on duty there, I too
would've probably just stared if my urine had been demanded. I have
never used illegal drugs in my life, and I believe those unfortunate
enough to get hooked on them deserve a better break than they get now.

So, Darlyn, do please come by again next year. We'll be there.

Nelda Sander

Stillwater
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin