Why Marijuana Legalization is a Racial Justice Issue

Join us to discuss the political landscape of marijuana legalization in New Jersey and how to ensure marijuana legalization is fair and equitable for communities of color in our state. RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/whats-at-stake-why-marijuana-legalization-is-a-racial-justice-issue-tickets-41769875823 Facilitated by: - asha bandele, Senior Director, Grants, Partnerships & Special Projects, Drug Policy Alliance Panelists include: - Reverend Timothy L. Jones, Bethany Baptist Church - Juan Cartagena, President and General Counsel, LatinoJustice PRLDEF - Dianna Houenou, Policy Counsel, ACLU-NJ According to all political leaders in the state, marijuana legalization is on the upcoming legislative agenda in New Jersey. At this point, it is not a question of whether marijuana will be legalized, but a question of when and more importantly, how. Until recently, marijuana legalization laws have inadequately addressed the lasting impacts of decades of harsh marijuana prohibition and punishment, particularly on communities of color. This is illustrated by the lack of diversity in the currently regulated marijuana markets, persistant racial disparities in enforcement of marijuana laws and the absence of meaningful reparations to those communities most harmed by marijuana prohibition. New Jersey must learn from other states as it legalizes marijuana and must ensure that legalization is fair and equitable. Snow Date: February 8, 2018