Dr. Kevin A. Sabet’s recent column in the Baltimore Sun, titled “Pardons Prove Marijuana Legalisation Isn’t About Social Justice,” discusses Governor Wes Moore’s recent pardon of over 175,000 prior marijuana convictions in Maryland. The piece delves into the complexities of marijuana legalisation and its implications on social justice, critiquing the marijuana addiction-for-profit industry.

Governor Wes Moore’s Recent Pardons

Last week, Governor Wes Moore pardoned more than 175,000 prior marijuana convictions, affecting over 100,000 individuals. This historic move came nearly two years after Maryland voted to legalise marijuana. While Moore’s decision is a step in the right direction, it is seen by some as a belated acknowledgment that marijuana legalisation does not inherently address social justice issues. The charges pardoned were related to low-level possession and paraphernalia offences.

Moore’s action mirrors President Joe Biden’s 2022 federal pardons for low-level marijuana possession. Moore described his decision as “the most sweeping state-level pardon in any state in American history.” Despite the magnitude of this pardon, it will not lead to the release of any prisoners, nor will it expunge the criminal records of those convicted.

The Narrative of Marijuana Legalisation

Sabet argues that the narrative pushed by marijuana profiteers—that legalising marijuana addresses systemic injustices—is misleading. Statistics show that people of colour are almost six times more likely to be arrested for all drugs, including marijuana, than whites. This disparity persists even with legalisation, which has given rise to a multi-billion-dollar industry.

Impact on Communities

The commercialisation of marijuana has exacerbated many underlying contributors to systemic injustice. Rather than reducing inequities, legalisation has created new economic disparities and public health issues. The impact of marijuana legalisation on communities, particularly communities of colour, remains contentious.

Sabet emphasises that the fight against the harmful impacts of marijuana legalisation is far from over. He encourages continued advocacy and education to combat the narratives promoted by the marijuana industry, aiming to protect vulnerable communities and promote genuine social justice.

Source: DB Recovery Resources