Our Revolution New Jersey Press Release For Release on August 19, 2020 at 8:30 am EDT ORNJ: Cannabis Legalization Must Be Just

In November, the people of New Jersey will be voting to legalize Cannabis for sale and use by individuals 21 years and older. Legalization is being hailed by some as a boon for our economy and by others as a win for social and racial justice. But how deep does this justice go?

Legalizing the use and sale of cannabis has the potential to halt one of the most demonstrably racist policies of our lifetimes, but the ballot measure as written leaves us with a lot of uncertainty. Is there justice for those who have been harmed under existing cannabis prohibition? What consequences will there be for users under the age of 21? How will this affect medical cannabis users? These uncertainties are more than just questions to ask, they are calls to action.

Our Revolution New Jersey (ORNJ) is calling for a socially and racially just approach to cannabis legalization. As November’s ballot measure nears, it is important to recognize that the legalization measure does not currently address any aspect of restorative justice. There are no expungements, no releases, and no racial justice provisions. It is unacceptable and cruel to leave people in jail and with records as the people of New Jersey celebrate the legalization of cannabis.

ORNJ is launching a petition demanding restorative justice in the legalization process. New Jersey must take into account the damage that has been done under cannabis prohibition and make amends to those it has harmed. Those arrested simply for cannabis offenses should not continue to suffer after legalization. Those under 21 should have reasonable consequences, and not be jailed or have a criminal record for cannabis use. Entry to the cannabis market must be accessible and not cost-prohibitive, with an emphasis on restorative justice when possible. There is more that we can and must do if we want to claim that November’s ballot measure supports racial justice.

To sign the petition, please visit https://tinyurl.com/ORNJ-Legalize-Petition.