Pubdate: Wed, 28 May 2003 Source: Lethbridge Herald (CN AB) Copyright: 2003 The Lethbridge Herald Contact: http://www.mysouthernalberta.com/leth/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/239 Author: Jerry Tillema LEGAL SANCTION AGAINST POT USE SHOULD REMAIN Editor: A proposal to decriminalize marijuana for non-medical use is before Canada's Parliament as of May 15. Evidence shows the following about marijuana: it is addictive and can lead to other illegal drug use; is more harmful than tobacco; has cancer causing capacity; retards normal growth of brain cells; harms reproductive eggs in women; damages the immune system; impairs judgment; causes risk of accident, e.g. death on the road; often causes social, psychological, academic and family problems, etc. (many times at taxpayers' expense). Decriminalization of marijuana will inevitably lead to more access and use. This must be prevented to protect the citizens of our country. Police departments across Canada oppose decriminalization of this drug. The Bible teaches that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and therefore we are not to harm ourselves or others. Please do what you can, as soon as possible, to stop the proposal to decriminalize marijuana. For example contact the Members of Parliament. JERRY TILLEMA Chatham, Ont. - --- MAP posted-by: Josh