Unlocking Justice: Cannabis Amnesty for Canadians
Unlocking Justice: Cannabis Amnesty for Canadians
Amnesty means giving a fresh start to people convicted of political offenses. Cannabis Amnesty is about pardoning Canadians with simple cannabis possession convictions. While legalizing cannabis in Canada is a victory, it has also brought unfairness. Many people with minor cannabis charges are still suffering the consequences, affecting their lives in various ways.
The Unseen Consequences
Cannabis laws disproportionately affected certain communities, like Black and Indigenous people, and those with lower incomes. Over 500,000 people faced charges for personal cannabis use, leading to hurdles in finding homes, jobs, education, and even traveling.
The Forgotten Step: Cannabis Amnesty
Amnesty is crucial for a fair and just legalization process. Without it, the positive impacts of cannabis legalization become incomplete. Neglecting amnesty perpetuates injustice and ignores the owed restitution to those affected.
Voices for Change
People like Jodie Emery and Chuck Rifici emphasize the importance of immediate Cannabis Amnesty. They believe that justice can only be restored by granting amnesty to those with cannabis-related criminal records.
Current Progress
Since legalization, only a small fraction of Canadians with cannabis possession charges have been pardoned. Organizations like Canniknow, Canadian Public Health Association, Merrco, Business of Cannabis, and Another Room are working towards amnesty. Cannabis Amnesty, a non-profit advocacy group, leads the charge for justice.
Cannabis Amnesty's Mission
Cannabis Amnesty, founded in 2018, aims to correct historical wrongs caused by cannabis prohibition. They campaign for government legislation to erase criminal records related to simple cannabis possession, public education to fight stigma, and criminal justice reform.
Advocacy for Racial Equity
Cannabis Amnesty calls on the government to conduct a 'Racial Equity Impact Assessment' of the Cannabis Act. This would ensure the legislation promotes equality and addresses historical injustices, especially concerning racial impact.
Canada's Opportunity
As the three-year review of the Cannabis Act approaches, Canada has a chance to set a global standard. Progressive policies, like Bill C-93, can expedite record suspensions for simple cannabis possession. Following examples from cities like Seattle, where past convictions were retroactively voided, can guide Canada toward a more just approach.
Join the Movement
Cannabis Amnesty needs your support. Sign the 'Campaign for Cannabis Amnesty Petition' at [link]. Together, we can rectify past injustices and advocate for a fair and compassionate approach to cannabis-related offenses.
Resource Information
Cannabis Amnesty (2019)
The Conversation. ‘Cannabis Legalization Must Include Cannabis Equity.’ (2019)
CTV, ‘Fewer than 400 people pardoned under new system for erasing old weed convictions.’ (2021)
The Globe and Mail. ‘Canadians Convicted of Simple Cannabis Possession Will Soon be Able to Apply for a Pardon.’ (2018)
Fortune. ‘Seattle Moves to Wipe Out 2 Decades of Marijuana Possession Convictions.’ (2018)
Vice. ‘Black and Indigenous People are Overrepresented in Canada’s Weed Arrests.’ (2017)
Canniknow. (2021)
