Pubdate: Mon, 18 Oct 2004
Source: Anchorage Daily News (AK)
Copyright: 2004 The Anchorage Daily News
Contact:  http://www.adn.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/18
Author: Linda Ronan
Cited: Yes on 2 ( www.yeson2alaska.com )
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/topics/marijuana+initiative
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/opinion.htm (Opinion)

STOP JUDGING ALASKA'S POT SMOKERS

They Can Be Responsible and Caring

Why be judgmental and ignorant about the "pot smoker"? I suggest that
we are all connected in some fashion by family, neighbor, friend,
co-worker, educator, caretaker or professional.

It's the human condition to alter your mind. You did so beginning with
twirling as a child. Most pot smokers are responsible and generously
give to their communities, pay taxes, vote and are spiritual beings.

I was an older woman's volunteer companion/caretaker for many years
because of love. She knew I smoked marijuana and cared less. I
volunteered in the school district to teach kids how to say no to
alcohol and drugs until mandatory drug testing became so lucrative and
deceiving. One of my Native students grew up to become a physicist.

I care for my disabled mother and auntie and my 8-year-old grandson
due to my youngest daughter's death this year. One of my children is a
nurse and the other is an officer in the U.S. Army. I am married to an
extremely loving husband who is surely a true saint.

The "drug war" is a complete failure and has turned into a war on the
American/Alaskan people. So what if I choose to smoke marijuana? How
does that hurt you? Please respect my right as an adult to choose what
to put in my body as I do yours. Vote yes on 2!

Linda Ronan, Chair

Alaska H.E.M.P.

Anchorage 
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake