6 May 2006

NORML presents J Day, this Saturday

The National Organisation for the Reform of Marijuana Laws is proud to present the 10th annual International J Day On Saturday 6 May 2006.

This Saturday there are J Day rallies happening in over 200 cities worldwide. Supporters of sensible drug policies are invited to make a stand against outdated and unworkable prohibition laws by attending rallies in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin. a.. Auckland - Albert Park b.. Wellington - Frank Kitts Park c.. Christchurch - Cathedral Square d.. Dunedin - The Octagon All events are free and run from "high noon".

"For over 30 years our drug laws have used punishment with the aim of reducing drug use. Yet despite spending billions of dollars, law enforcement has not had any significant effect on reducing supply or demand. Illicit drugs are more plentiful and cheaper than ever before. We have forgotten what the punishment was for, but still do it anyway, regardless of the harm it creates," said Paula Lambert of the Christchurch Coalition for Cannabis Law Reform.

"Despite a significant reduction in cannabis arrests over the past four years, New Zealand is still the top arresting nation for cannabis offences, per head of population," said NORML president Chris Fowlie. "There are enough people in prison right now for cannabis crimes to more than fill a medium-sized prison such as Mt Eden or Rolleston."

Eleven American states allow medicinal cannabis use, and more states are in the process of considering it. South Australia and ACT, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal, Belgium and Germany have decriminalised cannabis personal use and Britain has downgraded it. Mexico is about to legalise it for personal use and Scotland is talking about doing the same.

"Countries around the world have acknowledged the failure of prohibition and are reforming their laws. It is high time New Zealand ended the failed war on drugs, once and for all" said Mr Fowlie.

ENDS

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