The Leaf THE LEAF Sept-October 2019 | Page 22

5 Ways to Help Get Rid of the Stigma Around Cannabis By Johnny Green 17.04.2017 (Green Flower) For many decades there has been a stigma surrounding the cannabis plant and those that consume it. Alcohol and other legal substances are more dangerous than cannabis, but for various reasons cannabis is made out to be a terrible thing. Many people stay in the 'cannabis closet' because they are afraid of what people will think about their cannabis use. Supporters of cannabis reform who don't even consume cannabis often fear speaking about it for fear of discrimination and persecution. Everything that you do as a cannabis consumer, whether you like it or not, reflects back on the plant itself and helps shape the views of non-consumers. That's why it's vital you be a responsible cannabis consumer which means not acting the fool or doing something careless like driving under the influence or leaving your cannabis out so that young people can access it. #2) Arm yourself with cannabis facts The campaign to speak out about it continues to result in countless people coming out of the 'cannabis closet' which no doubt helps change minds and hearts. Whenever a person 'comes out green' it encourages others to do the same. Unfortunately, despite a current record level of support for legalization in America there is still a stigma surrounding the cannabis plant. #1) Be a responsible cannabis consumer Unfortunately there is a lot of factually inaccurate information out there about the cannabis plant. Most of the misinformation is perpetuated by cannabis opponents, but there are some supporters that are guilty too. A responsible cannabis advocate arms themselves with the facts so that when confronted by an opponent, or provided an opportunity to educate someone on the fence about cannabis, they are offering up the best information possible. Whether you realise it or not, you may be an 'official representative' of the cannabis plant in the eyes of some people. When these people think of cannabis, the first thing that pops into their mind is you. Would you say that the perception that they have is a good one or a bad one based off your level of responsibility as a cannabis consumer? Educate yourself on emerging clinical cannabis research, stay current with cannabis news and policy, and always remember that cannabis has been found to be 114 times safer than alcohol.