Pubdate: Sat, 22 Feb 2003
Source: Oregonian, The (Portland, OR)
Copyright: 2003 The Oregonian
Contact:  http://www.oregonlive.com/oregonian/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/324
Author: Floyd Ferris Landrath
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/people/Ed+Rosenthal

TARGETED, UNFAIRLY CONVICTED

The recent reports on the federal persecution of Ed Rosenthal (" 'Guru
of Ganja' convicted of violating marijuana cultivation, conspiracy
laws," Feb. 1, and "Jurors, pot advocate say conviction was wrong,"
Feb. 5) provide us with clear proof of both government lies about
cannabis and woefully misdirected law-enforcement priorities, i.e.,
the War on (some) Drugs.

It's clear to me Rosenthal was targeted not for any cultivation or
conspiracy, but rather his widely read writings on how to grow
cannabis, his success publishing related books and his justified
criticism of our governments' fascist drug policy.

This is no drug case. It is rather a breach of the First Amendment
hiding behind unconstitutional laws, justified by a self-perpetuating,
politically motivated Drug Enforcement Administration. It is yet
another example of why we need our own regime change.

FLOYD FERRIS LANDRATH

Director, American Antiprohibition League

Southeast Portland
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake