Pubdate: Sat, 21 Feb 2004
Source: National Post (Canada)
Copyright: 2004 Southam Inc.
Contact:  http://www.nationalpost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/286
Author: Kirk Tousaw

'REEFER REFUGEES'

Re: Our Gay Competitive Advantage, Jonathan Kay, Feb. 20.

Mr. Kay makes some excellent points in his column. Sadly, he sullies his 
reasoning by slurring so-called "losers" that previously came to Canada for 
refuge from draconian U.S. drug policies. These "losers" according to Mr. 
Kay include "reefer refugees."

Mr. Kay is right that gays can bring economic positives to Canada. But so 
can those in the cannabis industry. It is, after all, a business valued at 
more than $12 billion annually. That our government chooses not to take 
advantage of that economic boon, but rather allows it to fund organized 
crime, is illogical and dangerous social policy.

 From the liberal viewpoint, Mr. Kay should realize that those who enjoy 
cannabis are entitled to be treated with respect and equality -- just like 
those who prefer same-sex relationships.

 From the conservative view, bringing the cannabis industry into the 
mainstream will civilize the industry and reduce the influence of organized 
crime in our society. Either way, legalizing and regulating the business is 
a positive for all Canadians.

Kirk Tousaw, Vancouver
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom