Pubdate: Thu, 21 May 2009
Source: Sacramento Bee (CA)
Copyright: 2009 The Sacramento Bee
Contact:  http://www.sacbee.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/376
Author: Rube Young
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v09/n503/a03.html

WAR ON DRUGS BREEDS VIOLENCE

Re "Governor stirs debate on new revenue source" (Page A1, May 9): 
Although I agree with the overall content of this article, as well as 
with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's stance on opening up discussion, I 
could not help but notice the need to shift focus toward the cost of 
the "war on drugs" and how it is ultimately a major failure. We ought 
to shift focus to the briefly mentioned violence plaguing our 
neighbor to the south, Mexico. The cartels are not only known to be 
involved in major drug business with dealers in the United States but 
also with violent street gangs on both sides of the border. 
Legalization is not only a step toward resolving the old medicinal 
debate, but a resolution to the financial, social and civil 
distortion that has taken place since the substance was outlawed many 
decades ago.

It is not only the responsibility of our chosen representatives, but 
our own as citizens. As users and non-users, supporters and those 
against the legalization of marijuana, we all need to contribute to 
the ongoing research regarding this substance, drug, plant or 
whatever it is you call it. Anyone concerned with the outcome of this 
debate should be directly involved in becoming a well-informed citizen.

- - Rube Young, Sacramento
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom