And just like that, we reach the end of our historical journey.
I know, I know… goodbyes are hard. But let’s not think of it like that; let’s think of it as more of a “see you later”, or an “until next time” - though there won’t be a next time because this is literally the last portion of this series. Oh jeez now I’m sad again. Someone get the tissues. Here’s the thrilling conclusion to the HISTORY OF CANNABIS.
Enjoy.
Nowadays
1950-1970
- Cannabis has been prohibited in Canada, but its popularity increases over the 20th century, creating problems for consumers and authorities alike. While there is little usage between 1930 and 1946 (pssht, squares) - where there were only 25 cannabis convictions— cannabis’ usage soars from the ‘60s onwards as evidenced by the 12,000 convictions in 1972 alone.
1969-1972
- The arrests inspire action; in 1969, the Canadian government creates the Royal Commission of Inquiry in the Non-Medical Use of Drugs. Known as the Le Dain Commission, its 1972 report recommends the removal of criminal penalties for cannabis possession.
- Despite the commission’s recommendation, legislation does not change…
1970s-2000s
- Courageous Canadians begin to fight for change. Lawyer John Conroy wins high-profile cases that assert cannabis does not present significant harm AND stalls bans on patient cultivation.
- Dr. Mark Ware spends decades researching the safety and effectiveness of cannabis in pain and symptom management, changing opinions in the medical community.
- Activists like Hilary Black - who founded Canada’s first compassion club - dispense medical cannabis to patients before legal avenues exist.
2000’s
- As citizens continue to advocate for cannabis, Health Canada begins to regulate access to cannabis for medical purposes. In 2014, they create an official program that enables legal cannabis production by authorized licensed producers like your friends Tweed. Hey, that’s us...
2015
- In 2015, Canadians elect Justin Trudeau as Prime Minister - in part because of his promise to legalize the recreational use of cannabis nationally, a promise that is eventually passed with C-45— the Cannabis Act.
2018
- Legalization doesn’t just end prohibition, it ushers in a new and exciting era for Canada and Canadians alike. Becoming the first G7 country to legalize cannabis nationally, Canada creates safe and convenient access for all adult consumers, a legal market AND a new source of revenue for all levels of government.
- But more importantly, it also makes Canada like, really cool.
Hey look, you made it to the end, and whatta trip it’s been.
Way to go, pal - we’re proud of you. Now go ahead and use your new cannabis knowledge to impress your family, friends and random passersby.
After all, what’s the point of knowing stuff if you can’t tell everyone about it?
